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Parent Speaking Gossip

Question

I know that Jewish law restricts one from listening to lashon hara (slander or gossip). Yet, how do I refrain from listening to it if the speaker is a parent?

Answer

Thank you for your question. If it is not possible to (politely) speak up and ask them to refrain from Loshon Hara in your presence, you should consciously decide that you do not at all believe what they are saying, and just keep going about your business.

Take care,

Rabbi Aaron Tendler

Answered in cooperation with STAR-K Kosher Certification, Baltimore, MD