Shemirat HaLashon by the Chafetz Chaim: guarding the tongue
Shemirat HaLashon (שמירת הלשון), “Guarding the Tongue,” is an ethical treatise discussing the severity of lashon hara (gossip and other forms of forbidden speech). It is the work of the Chafetz Chaim and complements his legal book, the Chafetz Chaim, which contains the relevant laws.
Quick facts
| Title | Shemirat HaLashon (“Guarding the Tongue”) |
| Author | Rabbi Yisrael Meir HaKohen Kagan (the Chafetz Chaim) |
| Composition | Between 1865 and 1875 (according to Sefaria) |
| Publication | 1876 (according to Sefaria) |
| Place | Radun (according to Sefaria) |
Relation to the Chafetz Chaim
According to Sefaria, the Chafetz Chaim is commonly printed together with Shemirat HaLashon: the former contains the law and the latter the ethical reflection on proper speech.
Frequently asked questions
What is it about?
The severity of lashon hara and other forms of forbidden speech.
Is it a book of laws?
No: it is an ethical treatise; the laws are in the Chafetz Chaim.
Sources
- Shemirat HaLashon, entry on Sefaria