The Greek word katalaléō, represented by G2635, means to be a traducer, i.e. to slander. It appears 6 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. This term specifically refers to the act of speaking against or speaking evil of someone.
In scripture, G2635 is used to describe malicious speech directed at others. The Apostle Peter uses the term to describe how believers may be slandered by outsiders, who speak against them as evildoers 1 Peter 2:12. In a similar context, he advises believers that having a good conscience can put to shame those who speak evil of their good conversation G391 in Christ 1 Peter 3:16. James issues a direct command against this behavior within the church, stating, "Speak not evil one of another, brethren" James 4:11. He equates slandering a brother with judging the law itself.
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of G2635:
- G2919 krínō (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish): In James 4:11, speaking evil of a brother is directly linked to the act of judging him, and by extension, judging the law.
- G2555 kakopoiós (a bad-doer; (specially), a criminal): This is the label applied to believers who are slandered. They are spoken against "as evildoers" (1 Peter 2:12, 1 Peter 3:16).
- G1908 epēreázō (to insult, slander): This term is used alongside G2635 to describe the actions of accusers, who "falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ" 1 Peter 3:16.
The use of G2635 carries significant theological weight, particularly regarding conduct within the community of faith and as a witness to the world.
- Prohibition of Internal Slander: James forbids believers from speaking evil of one another, framing it as an act of judging the law itself. This elevates the sin from a personal offense to a challenge against divine standards, placing the slanderer in the position of a judge G2923 rather than a doer of the law James 4:11.
- Witness Through Good Conduct: In the face of slander from outsiders, the prescribed response is not verbal defense but an "honest conversation" G391 and good works. This righteous living is intended to silence accusations and ultimately lead those who speak against believers to glorify God on the day of visitation G1984 1 Peter 2:12.
- Responding to False Accusation: Believers are instructed to have G2192 a good conscience so that when they are spoken of as evildoers G2555, their accusers will be ashamed. The defense against slander is a life that proves the accusations false 1 Peter 3:16.
In summary, G2635 defines the act of slander or being a traducer. While it appears infrequently, its usage is impactful. Scripture uses it to issue a stern prohibition against believers speaking evil of each other, linking the act to the arrogance of judging God's law James 4:11. Simultaneously, it prepares believers for the reality of being slandered by the world, instructing them to counter false accusations not with words, but with an unwavering, good conversation G391 that serves as a testament to God (1 Peter 2:12, 1 Peter 3:16).
TRV