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| Are some words just too "bleeping" bad? |
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"Are some words just inherently bad? Are we really just not allowed to say them?"
As a writer (and a graduated English major), I have to be constantly aware of the power of words and the instrument that is language. Every word naturally carries meaning; it's how we communicate ideas, imagery, emotions. Our word choice, even the first few words on a page, can make all the difference in engaging a reader's interest and getting our message across.
Socializing is no different.
As a writer (and a graduated English major), I have to be constantly aware of the power of words and the instrument that is language. Every word naturally carries meaning; it's how we communicate ideas, imagery, emotions. Our word choice, even the first few words on a page, can make all the difference in engaging a reader's interest and getting our message across.
Socializing is no different.
That old saying about "sticks and stones" is just not true. Words have the power to heal and hurt, bless and curse, improve life and pave a path for destruction.
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
and those who love it will eat its fruits." (Proverbs 18:21 ESV)
And it's not just what we say, it's also how we say it. This is often forgotten or ignored in the art of communication, especially on the internet where people can speak their minds more "anonymously". While we cannot control how others may react, we can and do influence the atmosphere of a situation. Even just adding or omitting one word can make all the difference.
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Proverbs 12:18 NIV)
"A gentle answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger." (Proverbs 15:1 NIV)
"So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!" (James 3:5 ESV)
Perhaps our focus shouldn't be on whether or not certain words can be said but rather if we should say them. Bearing in mind that words carry meaning, what are we communicating when we use such words? Chances are, we can find a better (and even healthier) way to say what we want to say and be heard the way we want to be heard.
"Whoever desires to love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit..." (1 Peter 3:10 ESV)
Our choice of words can even say a lot about ourselves. Does our communication express respect and consideration? Or shallowness and contempt? Are your words made to help or hurt? Choose wisely.
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Curious Questions to Consider:
What are your thoughts on profanity? Is it subjective?
Are some words just inherently bad?
Is there ever any justification for using "curse words"?
Should profanity be censored in all media?
Are there any "bad words" in the bible?
What are your thoughts on profanity? Is it subjective?
Are some words just inherently bad?
Is there ever any justification for using "curse words"?
Should profanity be censored in all media?
Are there any "bad words" in the bible?
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Leave your thoughts in the comment section below. Feel free to share your own stories, experiences and insight in relation to the topic.
Be sure to be respectful and considerate of your word choice in regards to whatever details you choose to share. We're not here to gossip or backstab. Refrain from using specific names. Do not use this topic as an excuse to bash on those who may agree or disagree on certain views regarding swear words and profanity. No flame wars. Please keep it clean and civil.
God bless and thanks for sharing!
Be sure to be respectful and considerate of your word choice in regards to whatever details you choose to share. We're not here to gossip or backstab. Refrain from using specific names. Do not use this topic as an excuse to bash on those who may agree or disagree on certain views regarding swear words and profanity. No flame wars. Please keep it clean and civil.
God bless and thanks for sharing!
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Author's Notes:
Cover image courtesy of Wokandapix.
(Written on October 06, 2019.)
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Thanks for this discussion! Yes, we really do need to consider what words we use, very very carefully. Christ warns about this: "I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37) As for profanity, I have myself also wondered about its definition. The Holy Spirit uses a term in Ancient Greek that focuses on the concept of shame: so, shameful language. We are here to become like Christ and bring glory and honour to Almighty God. So profanity / shameful language is wrong. If I use language that is shameful, I am not bringing honour and glory to God.
ReplyDeleteI don't like any kind of profanity. Even common expresions like OMG and Geez have unfortunately crept into society's vocabulary but are actually using His name in vein without necessarily realising it. Robert.
ReplyDeleteGreat topic. The question I keep coming back to is why certain words are considered profane when other words with the exact same meaning are considered polite. I can say "this is a load of dung" and noone bat an eye bit it I change the word dung to a word that starts with s, suddenly I am no longer considered polite company.
ReplyDeleteSome words have no place in conversation and are obviously vulgar. I do refrain from using words considered profane, because it is expected of me to not use such words and it is considered offensive to many. I really don't get offended by "bad words" but I do not like vulgarity or using God as a curse word.
Language evolves and what is acceptable today may not be acceptable in the future and vice versa.
The main thoroughfare in Knoxville is Gay street. When it was named, gay had a very different meaning and I am sure the early settlers of Knoxville had no idea what gay would mean today.
The bottom line for me, as a believer, is my conversation needs to be uplifting and God honoring, so even though I may not personally feel convicted against certain words, I don't need to use them.