Insult - Curse?
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Question
Hello, Honorable Rabbi!
Is saying an insulting word that defines a certain developmental level considered a curse that one would be punished for?
(Shavuot 35, Makkot 8)?
Thank you very much!
Answer
Hello,
one is not punished for a curse unless one curses their fellow using the name of God. However, one who curses their fellow even without mentioning the name of God transgresses a Torah prohibition.
In the case you mentioned, there is no prohibition of a curse. Because the prohibition of a curse is to wish something bad upon someone. But to tell them they are bad, or foolish, etc., is not a curse.
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