Within the practice of Right Speech is something that promotes harmony and peace. It breaks down hostility and builds bridges where there are walls. This practice is sorely lacking in our modern world. That practice is the abstinence from divisive words.

Before the internet age, the spread of information was limited. Word of mouth had its limits, and printed materials—books, newspapers, broadcasts—were controlled by a few privileged individuals: politicians, writers, producers. Messages had to go through layers of editing and gatekeeping. But now, a single click is enough to broadcast an opinion, a rumour, or an accusation to thousands—sometimes millions—within seconds.

But have we ever paused to ask ourselves: What exactly are we sharing?
Is it wisdom or ignorance?
Is it love or hate?
Are we spreading harmony or division?

Divisive speech is not always born out of malice. Often, it arises out of ignorance, or worse, a desire to entertain. We share something outrageous because it’s shocking. We pass on a juicy rumor because it makes us feel part of the “inside circle.” But in doing so, we forget the human cost. Words do not vanish into the void—they land, they take root, and they spread. And when what spreads is division, the result is pain.

The Buddha cautioned against slander and talebearing—gossiping, spreading rumors, or revealing things that turn people against one another. In his teachings, Right Speech means to refrain from saying anything that may cause conflict between individuals or groups. It’s not just about telling the truth; it’s about telling the truth responsibly. It’s about checking ourselves before we sow discord.

In today’s world, this ancient wisdom has never been more relevant. We live in a time where people are falsely accused, shamed, and cancelled over unverified claims that go viral. Sometimes these stories are later proven untrue—but by then, the damage is done. Reputations are ruined. Lives are upended. Whole communities are pitted against each other.

Religions against religions. Races against races. Citizens against migrants. Neighbor against neighbor. Every day, it seems, a new “us versus them” is being created. And too often, all it takes is a story—shared without reflection, without compassion, and without truth.

But none of this is new. Even in the Buddha’s time, people loved to gossip. They spread rumors. They stirred conflict. And even the Buddha himself was not spared from malicious accusations. What’s changed is the scale. The speed. The reach.

Choosing not to engage in divisive speech is not just a spiritual practice—it is an act of resistance against the forces that profit from conflict and outrage. It is a daily vow to not be a vessel for hatred, but a channel for understanding.

In a world so deeply fractured, perhaps one of the most radical things we can do is this:
Speak only words of wisdom and love; when in doubt—stay silent.

This is not silence out of fear. It is silence out of strength. Out of wisdom. Out of peace.

May all beings be well and happy.