The Danger of “White Lies” (Day 120 - Orchos Tzaddikim | Falsehood 2)

Описание: In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 120), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Falsehood (Sheker) from Orchos Tzaddikim, exploring the second type of lie: the "white lie" or seemingly harmless falsehood (e.g., exaggeration for story enhancement, inconsequential fibs). Even when no one is hurt and no gain is sought, such lies are forbidden—because they stem from a desire to curry favor, build trust falsely, lower someone's guard, or gain advantage through deception.

The rabbi cites King Solomon: a lying tongue is an abomination to kings—true leaders despise falsehood. The wise person weighs every statement carefully, rejecting even "small" lies that distort reality or make falsehood appear true. Sophisticated rationalizations often justify lies, but purging bad traits (arrogance, laziness, etc.) allows pure truth to emerge.

The chapter stresses: falsehood distances one from Hashem (who is Emet/truth), harms others indirectly (steals dignity, causes pain/discord), and collapses over time (sheker has one leg; emet stands on two). The episode ends with a preview of the next types of falsehood (e.g., denying deposits, false testimony) and their double punishment.
Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on July 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 2, 2026
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_____________Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #WhiteLies, #Truth, #Lies, #Rationalizations, #JewishEthics

Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
Episode 433
February 2, 2026

★ Episode details: https://share.transistor.fm/s/83f6ecf1

★ Additional episodes: https://linktr.ee/ariwol