(from "God" and "sib," a Saxon word signifying "’kindred"), a name given in England to sponsors as bearing a spiritual relationship to the children for whom they stand. — Procter, On Common Prayer, page 361.
Gossiping is a serious sin in Judaism. See Speech and Lashon Ha-Ra.
An ancient Israelite proverb expresses the truth that the more people talk, the more they are liable to sin (Pro 10:19). This is one reason why the Bible constantly urges people to control their tongues (Psa 141:3; Pro 16:23; Pro 17:27-28; Jas 1:19; Jas 3:7-10). It is very easy to gossip. What starts as idle talk can easily lead to exaggerations, half-truths and false impressions, all of which can do much damage (Jas 3:2; Jas 3:5).
Gossip can become a habit; worse still, an enjoyable habit (Pro 11:13; Pro 18:8). In spreading rumours, people may have the deliberate intention to slander others (Psa 31:13; Psa 50:20; Pro 10:18; Rom 3:8) or they may just be foolish chatterers (Pro 26:20; Ecc 5:3; Mat 12:36), but either way they will probably cause trouble (Pro 26:18-20).
God links gossip with some of the most hateful sins (Rom 1:29-30), and constantly warns his people against it (Psa 101:5; Pro 10:19; 2Co 12:20; Jas 4:11; 1Pe 2:1). All who are in positions of leadership or influence must be especially careful not to gossip (1Ti 3:11; Tit 2:3). (See also TONGUE.)