Between people – Truthfulness, honesty and constructive criticism

בין אדם לחבירו – אמת, יושר ותוכחה בונה

The Rebbe's guidance on truthfulness, honesty and constructive criticism:

Report the truth. Never apologize for reporting the true situation, even when it is not ideal; concealing the truth is improper and causes needless distress (IK 5141). Accurate reporting is needed so that proper guidance can be given, and asking for it is meant to strengthen, not diminish, anyone (IK 2052).

Constructive criticism. Shortcomings should be reported, because honest communication is the path to improvement — but constructively and without exaggeration, and rebuke, when needed, should be persistent and sincere (IK 6663). Criticism of a teacher or speaker belongs in a private conversation, not a public challenge that embarrasses him (IK 7172).

Integrity in judgment and in public. A judge must investigate thoroughly and rule with absolute integrity (IK 3289). Misattributed public statements should be corrected to prevent misunderstanding (IK 10165), and a publication should reflect authentic Judaism without compromise (IK 10873).

See also: Between people – Guarding one's speech and judging others favorably; Leadership – Leading and organizing communal work.

Shiurim in this topic

2052. Clarifying Intentions in Evaluating Students and the Importance of Honest Reporting הבהרת הכוונות בהערכת תלמידים וחשיבות הדיווח הכנה

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3289. The Judge's Duty to Rule Truthfully in Civil Cases חובת הדיין לפסוק באמת בתיקי ממונות

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4088. Clarifying Intentions in Giving Constructive Criticism הבהרת כוונות במתן תוכחה בונה

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5141. The Importance of Honest Reporting חשיבות הדיווח הכנה

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6663. Reporting Shortcomings, Constructive Criticism, and Honest Communication דיווח על מגרעות, ביקורת בונה, ותקשורת כנה

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7172. Public Rebuke During Torah Shiurim and the Importance of Ahavas Yisrael הוכחה ברבים בשיעורי תורה וחשיבות אהבת ישראל

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10165. Clarification on Public Statements, Requests for Denial, and Community Concerns הבהרה על הצהרות פומביות, בקשות להכחשה, ודאגות הקהילה

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10873. The Importance of Yiddish Content and Truth in Jewish Journals חשיבות תוכן ביידיש ואמת בז'ורנאלים יהודיים

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