Restraint of Speech

 

**🌷 Restraint of Speech 🌷**

*“This speech, which abides in the Supreme Being,

which is divine, endowed with noble qualities,

and sharpened by Vedic wisdom—

by which even terrible evils can be produced—

may that very speech bring us peace.”*

— (Atharvaveda 19.9.3)

**Explanation of the mantra:**

That speech through which, by means of Vedic knowledge, one reaches God—if through that same speech some harm or disorder arises, then a learned person should correct that mistake through proper conduct and establish peace.

The *Manusmṛti* enumerates the faults of speech as follows:

*“Harshness, falsehood, slander,

and meaningless or incoherent talk—

these are the four kinds of faults of speech.”*

— (Manusmṛti 12.6)

**Meaning:**

Speaking harshly, lying, backbiting, and irrelevant or senseless talk—these are the four defects of speech.

Speech has immense importance in our lives. Through mastery over speech, a person can rise to great heights.

The first virtue of speech is **measured speech**—that is, speaking little. One who speaks less generally speaks thoughtfully and avoids meaningless or reckless talk.

Therefore, the Veda says:

*“Let idle talk not rule over us.”*

— (Ṛgveda 8.48.14)

One major defect of speech is **backbiting**, speaking ill of others behind their backs. The Veda instructs:

*“Do not criticize.”*

— (Ṛgveda 4.5.2)

A poet has aptly said:

*“Do not look at the faults of others; reflect upon your own.

Never indulge in criticism—this alone is a true virtue.”*

The only remedy for this tendency is to refrain from discussing others’ faults behind their backs; instead, speak of their virtues publicly, and if necessary, point out their shortcomings privately, in solitude, and with love. This increases mutual affection and also brings about personal reform.

Another fault of speech is **speaking harsh words directly to someone**. Harsh words deeply wound the mind of the listener; therefore, gentle words should always be used. Whatever can be said harshly can also be conveyed through soft and kind words. Then why not speak even difficult truths sweetly—so that the other person is not hurt, the matter is resolved, and no problem arises for the speaker either?

Reproduced by Dr. Vivek Arya