What does the Bible say about verbal abuse?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible condemns speech that wounds, demeans, threatens, or manipulates others, calling believers to repent and use words that give grace and build up. Ephesians 4:29 and 4:31 contrast corrupt, bitter speech with edifying words, while Proverbs 12:18 warns that reckless words pierce like a sword. Jesus teaches that people will answer for every careless word they speak in Matthew 12:36-37, showing that verbal cruelty is not trivial before God. Colossians 3:19 specifically forbids husbands from being harsh with their wives. Yet God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalms 34:18), and he calls the abused to seek wise, godly help and peace where possible.