The talk addresses the danger of speech and the sins of the tongue, stressing that the tongue expresses the depths of the heart and that the mouth’s speech is a mirror of what is inside.

The nature of tongue sins and their origin

He explains that tongue sins are foremost sins of the heart because they reveal what is in the heart such as malice, envy, hardness, or others, and that the devil began with the sin of speech and sowing doubt with Eve.

Serious irreversible consequences

He emphasizes that a word goes out and does not return, and it may bring judgment or impurity or long-lasting wounds not healed by a quick apology, because the speech reaches others and is recorded and has practical and spiritual consequences.

Biblical and historical examples of effect

He cites examples from the Holy Scripture: Solomon’s fall and the kingdom’s division as a result of words and actions, Michal’s word for which God withheld childbirth from her, and Peter’s denial which caused him long pain — all are indications of the power of the word.

Forms of tongue sins

He lists their forms: slander, gossip, inventing speech, conveying secrets, mockery and derision, gloating, harshness, heavy teasing, and ill-advised counsel that harms instead of helps.

How to beware and protect oneself

He advises listening before speaking, being slow of tongue and deliberate in expression, disciplining the tongue as the fasting person disciplines himself from food, not transmitting secrets or igniting doubts, and relying on the confessor for spiritual counsel.

The virtue of silence and blessed speech

He points to the saints’ love of silence, mentions David’s plea that the Lord open his lips so that his mouth will speak praise, and urges that we ask God for blessed words before we speak.

Practical and spiritual conclusion

The conclusion is a spiritual call: the necessity of caution in speech, preserving the purity of the heart, choosing a gentle and kind manner in frankness, and striving to discipline the tongue by prayer and silence so that words do not ruin people’s lives and societies.

For better translation support, please contact the center.