what does the bible say about shaming others

3 min read 22-12-2024

what does the bible say about shaming others

The Bible, across its various books and teachings, strongly discourages shaming others. While specific verses don't explicitly use the word "shaming," the overarching principles of love, compassion, and forgiveness condemn actions and attitudes that inflict emotional or spiritual harm. Understanding the biblical perspective requires examining several key themes.

The Golden Rule and its Implications

One of the most fundamental principles in the Bible is the Golden Rule, found in Matthew 7:12: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." This principle directly opposes shaming. If you wouldn't want to be publicly humiliated or shamed, then you shouldn't inflict that pain on another. This extends beyond overt actions to include subtle forms of criticism or judgment that wound the spirit.

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

The command to love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39) further emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. Shaming directly contradicts this fundamental commandment. Love seeks to build up, not tear down. It focuses on redemption and restoration, not on highlighting flaws or weaknesses. It's about offering grace and understanding, not condemnation.

Forgiveness and Mercy

Throughout the Bible, forgiveness and mercy are repeatedly highlighted as crucial virtues. Shaming often stems from a lack of forgiveness or a desire for retribution. The parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23-35) illustrates the devastating consequences of withholding forgiveness. Similarly, the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) includes the plea, "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." If we expect forgiveness, we should extend the same grace to others, resisting the urge to shame.

Humility and Self-Reflection

The Bible also emphasizes humility. Before judging or shaming others, we should first examine our own lives and shortcomings (Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 6:37-42). This introspection prevents hypocritical judgment and promotes self-awareness. It fosters empathy and understanding, making it harder to shame someone whose struggles we might also experience.

Consequences of Shaming

The consequences of shaming can be severe, both for the shamer and the shamed. Shaming can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. For the shamer, it can foster pride, self-righteousness, and a hardened heart. The Bible repeatedly warns against the dangers of pride and judgmentalism. Proverbs 11:2 states, "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”

Building Others Up, Not Tearing Them Down

Instead of shaming, the Bible promotes building others up through encouragement, support, and constructive feedback (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13). This approach fosters growth, healing, and strong relationships. It aligns with the spirit of love, compassion, and forgiveness that permeates the scriptures. We are called to be instruments of grace, not instruments of judgment.

Practical Application: How to Respond When Faced with Wrongdoing

This doesn't mean ignoring wrongdoing. The Bible does address confronting sin and holding people accountable. However, this should be done with love, humility, and a focus on restoration, not humiliation. Consider these points:

Pray for guidance: Before confronting someone, seek God's wisdom and discernment.
Approach with humility: Acknowledge your own flaws and imperfections.
Focus on behavior, not character: Address specific actions, avoiding generalizations or personal attacks.
Offer grace and forgiveness: Be willing to forgive and extend mercy.
Seek reconciliation: Aim for restoration of the relationship, not merely judgment.

In conclusion, while the Bible doesn't explicitly address "shaming" with a specific list of dos and don'ts, its overarching teachings on love, forgiveness, humility, and the Golden Rule clearly condemn behaviors that inflict emotional or spiritual harm. Building up, rather than tearing down, is the path outlined in scripture. It's a path that leads to healthier relationships and a closer walk with God.