Question:
What is detraction? What are some basic principles to help me examine my conscience with respect to this sin?
Answer:
The Baltimore Catechism (Q 1311) defines detraction as “revealing the sins of another without necessity.”
So the basic questions we need to ask ourselves when a situation arises where we might reveal someone else’s sins:
- What is my motivation for sharing this information?
- Am I trying to make myself look better or someone else look worse?
- What good, if any, will come out of sharing this information?
- Am I taking pleasure in sharing this information?
- If the “shoe was on the other foot,” would I feel someone would be justified in sharing this about me or someone I love?
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