The Torah recounts stories of people who were extra careful not to even slightly embarrass someone. This isn’t just about spreading rumors or gossiping about a friend; according to the Torah, even making a small joke at their expense, which might not show them in the best light, is considered extremely serious. In the times of the Gemara, embarrassment typically occurred in front of a small group, of about three people. The Gemara emphasizes that such acts are considered the worst sins in the Torah.

NOW, CONSIDER TODAY’S REALITY, WHERE AN EMBARRASSING SOCIAL MEDIA POST CAN REACH THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE. THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES ARE FAR GREATER.

The responsibility lies primarily with the person who creates the post, as they initiate the harm. However, those who share such content also bear significant responsibility because, without their actions, the reach would be far smaller. There are several reasons why people put others down, often to seem funny or gain views on their posts. While spreading humor and joy is a positive thing, it should never come at someone else’s expense.

Instead, focus on creating content that entertains without harming others. Many clean and funny accounts provide inspiration for crafting content that can make people laugh without causing pain to others. While people might laugh at an embarrassing post, deep down, they are less likely to respect the person who created it.

Research shows that bullying victims can carry the emotional pain for over 40 years, with long term effects on their physical health.

There is a story in the Gemara, how every morning, a Rabbi used to put money in a door slot of a poor man. The poor man didn’t know where the money came from. One day the poor man heard the money being dropped in his door slot, and he was curious who had been giving him the money every day. When he opened the door to check, the Rabbi noticed it and ran away in order to avoid embarrassing the poor man. The poor man ran after Rabbi. The Rabbi found a hiding spot in a hot oven. He jumped into it to hide from the poor man. Because if the poor man would see who gave him the money, he might get embarrassed. Look how far the Rabbi went to protect someone’s dignity and respect.