We have spoken of the importance of the words that we use. But there is an element of our speech that we perhaps did not cover well enough: the intent behind our words. When we speak, we have a choice regarding the words we use, but we may also have an intention behind the words that we choose. A major element of intent also includes the context of the message that we intend to communicate. In most situations, intent and context tend to be intricately linked, and it is this linkage that could provide an opportunity for the collection of adverse Karmic Energies.
Some examples may be in order.
If one were to know the spiritual beliefs of an individual, but chose to refer to them as a “Witch”, when they knowingly were not an adherent of Witchcraft or Wicca, is a way to have Karmic consequences. In addition to referring to one as a “Witch” being possibly derogatory to those who do not actually practice Witchcraft, there was an intent associated with this that ensured the derogatory nature of the speech.
If your own beliefs include terms that have a derogatory intent towards those who are not members of your group – for instance, if you call or consider others “heretic”, “heathen”, “infidel”, or a “Shiksa” – you do have a risk of having Karmic implications for your speech. Intent is an important factor here; in some contexts, these words (and other similar words) may be neutral. For instance, referring to somebody as a “heathen”, specifically in the context of Heathenry (which is a recognized religion), would not incur Karma. But “heathen”, used in the context of referring to one who does not share your beliefs, carries with it an intention that does constitute adverse karma. There are many more words like these, which could have a context that would make them permissible, or without fear of acquiring Karma.
Intent is a key and critical element. Even if a given word is considered derogatory in one context, if it has been a commonly used word in a different context, and the intention of its use is not considered to be derogatory, Karma can be avoided. Even if the original person using the word has no derogatory intention, others may attempt to impose a derogatory intent on them; in this situation, the person imposing their own intention on another are the ones who will encounter Karma.
So how did this all get so complicated? Because the language(s) that have been developed by humans are imprecise, words can have multiple meanings, language (and words) can be context dependent, and translations between different languages can be exceedingly difficult. In addition, individuals can have context specific understandings of words that are dependent on their own life experiences and understandings.
Finally, a bit more about a topic we have addressed before – words matter. Words do have Energy associated with them, and intent may be an important element of that. And once the words are uttered, they can not be “taken back”, nor does an apology reverse any Karmic Energies. Saying you are sorry may make you feel better, but it does not allow one to take back the Energies of the spoken words. And if the words were spoken to another, their forgiveness will not relieve you of the Energy either.
Carefully use your words. Watch the intention behind what you say. And be unambiguous.