What does the Bible say about gossip?
Quick answer
The Bible treats gossip as a serious sin — a tongue-driven violation of love. Proverbs warns of it repeatedly. Paul lists "gossips" with other sins he names as conduct unworthy of Christians.
"A perverse person spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends" (Proverbs 16:28). Gossip looks small but breaks deep things.
A useful test: would I say this in front of the person? Could I say it in front of God? If "no," it’s gossip.
When tempted, redirect. Pray for the person instead of about them. Bring concerns to the one who can help, not to the one who will whisper further.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.