backbiting
Sign in to savethumb|right|1868 allegory of backbiting based on [[Psalms, "the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart" (11:2) and "their tongue a sharp sword" (57:4)"]] Backbiting or tale-bearing is to slander someone in their absence — to bite them behind their back. Originally, backbiting referred to an unsporting attack from the rear in the blood sport of bearbaiting.
Article
4 sectionsContents
- Causes
- Religious views
- Notable examples
- References
thumb|right|1868 allegory of backbiting based on [[Psalms, "the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart" (11:2) and "their tongue a sharp sword" (57:4)"]] Backbiting or tale-bearing is to slander someone in their absence — to bite them behind their back. Originally, backbiting referred to an unsporting attack from the rear in the blood sport of bearbaiting.
==Causes== Backbiting may occur as a form of release after a confrontation. By insulting the opposing person, the backbiter diminishes them and, by doing so, restores their own self-esteem. A bond may also be established with the confidante if they are receptive to the hostile comment. Such gossip is common in human society as people seek to divert blame and establish their place in the dominance hierarchy. But the backbiting may be perceived as a form of delinquent behaviour due to an inferiority complex.