LEV1014 Verbal abuse of anyone is forbidden by the Jewish tradition under the biblical command, "and you shall not wrong one another" (this verse). This prohibition precludes verbal abuse of minors as well as adults, (B. Bava Kamma 90a; M.T. Laws of Assault and Injury 3:5; and S.A. Hoshen Mishpat 420:38)) an important point to note especially by teachers and parents. In addition to these general interdictions of verbal abuse, Jewish sources tell a man to be especially careful not to abuse his wife verbally, "for since she cries easily, it is all too easy to oppress her." (B. Bava Metzia 59a. Literally, "for since her tears are common, her oppression is near.") Similarly, the Talmud says that a man's wife is given to him so that he might realize life's plan together with her; he certainly does not have the right to vex or grieve her continually and without cause. "Vex her not, for God notes her tears." (B. Ketubbot 61a). These commands are derived, in part, from the promise that the man is required to make in the wedding contract to honor his wife. Indeed, "He who loves his wife as himself and honors her more than himself is granted the scriptural promise, 'You shall know that your tent is in peace.'" (B. Yevamot 62b; the biblical verse quoted is Job 5:24). Contemporary readers may be justifiably offended by the sexism of some of these remarks, but that modern sensitivity should lead us to argue that wives as well as husbands are duty-bound to avoid verbally abusing their spouses, for husbands, too, can and do feel hurt by such shaming.