Why You Can't Speak Badly of the Deceased: History and Meaning of a Popular Belief
There is an ancient belief that one should not speak ill of the dead.
This rule is passed down from generation to generation and has different origins and explanations.
One version says that this belief came to us from Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece, where philosophers and politicians respected the memory of the dead and considered it indecent to speak ill of them.
There was also a law prohibiting speaking ill of a dead person under penalty of death.
Another version connects this belief with the soul of the deceased, which after death is still on earth and can hear everything that is said about it.
If a person speaks badly of the deceased, he can harm him or himself. Bad words can prevent the soul from undergoing purification and reuniting with God. They can also bring misfortune, illness or failure to the offender.
From a religious point of view, it is a grave sin to speak ill of the deceased. A person is not supposed to judge others and must be responsible for his words before God. The truth should be spoken about the deceased or nothing. One should also pray for the repose of the soul of the deceased and help him with good deeds.
Speaking badly about the deceased is not only wrong, but also pointless. The person can no longer change his life or correct his mistakes.
It is better to remember the good things about him and show respect for his memory. This way we can maintain our peace of mind and maintain contact with those who have passed away.
