Deuteronomy 17:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Once more, whispering and slander walk hand in hand with the most disgraceful actions. Both partake in the same behavior, which paves a path to destruction and is truly detestable to both God and humanity. The guilt associated with slander, by its very nature, reveals a corrupted and impure residence. Thus, let us refrain from engaging in this forbidden and unacceptable practice, lest we find ourselves at odds with our fellow believers. The Scriptures also state: Every evil word is an abomination to the Lord your God.