Hear no ill of a friend, nor speak any of an enemy.
“Hear no ill of a friend, nor speak any of an enemy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Avoid gossip by neither hearing rumors about friends nor speaking ill of enemies, preserving trust and harmony.
In simple terms: Stay silent on gossip.
Key Takeaway
Refrain from spreading or speaking ill.
Themes
ethics
relationships
trust
communication
integrity
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
moral
advice
When to use this quote
- workplace
- family gatherings
- online forums
- community meetings
Key Concepts
Moral restraint
social cohesion
reputation management
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it appropriate to confront a friend's fault?
- How do you balance honesty with kindness?
A Different Perspective
Complete silence may suppress necessary criticism or truth‑telling.