Group None

And now we shall explain what we wrote above (section 2) [about demeaning one] "in respect to 'strength.'" That is, to say about one before the men of the city that he is by nature a weak man. This [i.e., the din in this case] depends [upon the circumstances]. If, according to the circumstances, he can be harmed by this, as when he is a day-laborer or a teacher (and there are many of this kind), then certainly what he says is in the category of lashon hara. And, "in respect to wealth." That is, to say about one before others that he is poor or not wealthy — "as they say about him in the city" — and that whatever he has is on credit to others. This, too, is in the category of lashon hara. For certainly, if this becomes public knowledge, he will not thereafter find anyone to extend him credit, and this will cause him harm and great distress, and it will threaten his very livelihood. And, over all, the man of heart must certainly take care (if he intends no [particular] benefit), that there not result from this any harm to the one spoken about. And if, in all of these instances, he must say what he does in anticipation of some benefit, all of this will be treated below (i.e., in which circumstances and by what means), the L–rd willing. (viz. Part II, Principle 9.) And one must take great care not to be hasty to be lenient in this matter and say: "I do not intend to demean this man but [to derive] such and such benefit." For there are many details that must first be resolved. (viz. Part II, Principle 9.)