RAQA
The term “Raqa” appears in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus warns against using such derogatory language towards others. Matthew 5:22 states: “But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, ‘Raqa,’ will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to fiery Gehenna.”
“Raqa” is an Aramaic term of contempt, roughly equivalent to calling someone worthless or empty-headed. By using this example, Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of verbal abuse and the damage it can inflict on human dignity. The Catholic Church teaches that such language violates the Fifth Commandment, “You shall not kill,” as it can harm a person’s reputation and honor. The Catechism of the Catholic Church elaborates on this, stating: “Respect for the reputation of persons forbids every attitude and word likely to cause them unjust injury. He becomes guilty: of rash judgment who, even tacitly, assumes as true, without sufficient foundation, the moral fault of a neighbor.”
Jesus’ teaching goes beyond the mere prohibition of insults. He calls us to a higher standard of love and respect for all human beings, created in God’s image. This aligns with the Catholic principle of human dignity, which asserts that every person, regardless of their status or abilities, possesses inherent worth.
As Christians, we are called to reflect Christ’s love in our words and actions. St. Paul exhorts us in Ephesians 4:29, “No foul language should come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for needed edification, that it may impart grace to those who hear.”
REFLECTION
We must cultivate a spirit of love, respect, and compassion in our interactions with others. Instead of using words to tear down, we should use them to build up and encourage. This requires constant vigilance over our thoughts and speech, always striving to see the inherent dignity in every person we encounter.
Let us remember Christ’s words in Matthew 12:36-37: “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will render an account for every careless word they speak. By your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” May this sobering reminder inspire us to use our words wisely, always seeking to reflect God’s love and mercy in our interactions with others.