PART I RIGHTEOUSNESS
CHAPTER 19
REFERAINING FROM SLANDER
181. Behold the man who doeth iniquity and who speaketh not so much as the name of righteousness : it is sweet even unto him if men say, Lo, here is one who backbiteth not.
182. It is wrong to turn away from good and do evil: but it is far worse to smile before and vilify behind.
183. It is worthier to die at once than live by lying and slander: for such a death bringeth with it the fruits of righteousness.
184. Slander not a man behind his back even though he hath insulted thee to thy very face.
185. The lips may speak righteousness : but a slanderous tongue betrayeth the meanness of the heart.
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