What does speak not evil of the absent for it unjust mean?

This saying, often shortened to "Speak not evil of the absent," is a concise expression of the moral principle that it's unjust to criticize someone who is not present to defend themselves.

Here's a breakdown of the meaning:

* Speak not evil: This refers to refraining from saying negative things about someone.

* Of the absent: This specifies that the prohibition applies to people who are not present in the conversation.

* For it is unjust: This explains the ethical reason for the prohibition. It's unfair to speak poorly of someone who can't respond or offer their perspective.

The core idea is about fairness and due process. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard and defend themselves. Speaking poorly of someone in their absence can be damaging to their reputation and potentially harmful to their relationships.

Here are some related concepts:

* Gossip: Speaking negatively about someone behind their back is a form of gossip, which is generally considered unethical.

* Defamation: If the negative statements are false and cause harm to the person's reputation, it could be considered defamation, which is a legal offense.

* Empathy: This saying encourages us to consider how we would feel if we were the target of such criticism.

Ultimately, this adage is a reminder to be mindful of our words and to treat others with respect, even when they are not present.