We continue with Chapter One of our translation of the Chofetz Chaim’s Sefer entitled, “Sfas Tamim.”
“One who does so (deceives another) is of those whom Hashem hates. As our Sages have said (Pesachim 113b): There are three [groups of people] who the Holy One Blessed be He hates, and one of them is one who speaks one way through his mouth and another way in his heart. Furthermore, the Holy One Blessed be He avenges against him on account of this evil trait. As it states in Yirmiyahu (9:7), “One speaks to his fellow in friendship, but lays an ambush for him in his heart.” The Passuk further relates, “Shall I not punish them for such deeds - says Hashem - on such a nation as this shall I not bring retribution?”
On these matters, the punishment is on two things: On the lie and the damage contained within it. For the lie, aside from the damage aspect of it, it is also an abomination before Hashem, as its states in Mishlei (12:22), “Lying speech is an abomination to Hashem, but those who act faithfully please Him.” And certainly, he that cunningly plans to damage and harm another.”
