Introduction to Negative Mitzvot 315-318:
Prohibitions against Cursing
There may be times when we become so upset with a person that we lose our temper.
The Torah teaches us to control ourselves and always guard what comes out of our mouths. We are especially cautioned not to curse anyone.
Negative Mitzvah 315
It is forbidden to curse judges
Exodus 22:27 "You shall not curse the judges"
This Negative Mitzvah forbids us from cursing judges.
Negative Mitzvah 281
It is forbidden to listen to only one side while sitting in judgment
Exodus 23:1 "You shall not raise a false report"
When two people have an argument, it is only fair to hear them both.
If a judge only listens to one side of the story, and the other person is not given a chance to give his point of view, will not have a full account of what happened.
This Negative Mitzvah includes another law.
Each side must be able to hear what the other person says, so he will be able to explain and prove his story.
The Torah instructs a judge not to accept a report given in court when the other side is not there to hear it.
Negative Mitzvah 316
It is forbidden to curse a ruler
Exodus 22:27 "Nor shall you curse the ruler of your people"
We are forbidden to curse a Jewish king, our Torah leaders, or government officials.