Is it a sin to watch or play video games with profane words?translated

Reader's Question:

Greetings! Is it a sin to watch or play video games where there are profane words?

Victor Nikishov, Priest

May God bless you!

Profanity, including in video games, is a sin because the use of profane words defiles the gift of speech given to man according to the image of God. Saint John Chrysostom says:

"What word do we hold in lesser esteem? What word is more changeable? What do we throw away like dirt every moment as not even a word? … Christian! Be careful with each word, be attentive to each word; be firm in your words."

Words are not just sounds; through them, man prays to God and communicates with others. The Apostle Paul commands: "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth" (Ephesians 4:29), so listening to profanity, even through media, accustoms the soul to this sin. By hearing another person's speech, you join in what is said. It will be hard for you to long reject these words; first, you will stop noticing them, and later they will begin entering your own speech.

Regarding video games in general, the Church does not impose a strict prohibition but approaches this issue with spiritual discernment. The Apostle Paul writes: "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient" (1 Corinthians 6:12). Therefore, one should be cautious and avoid content that is harmful or inappropriate.

The Church teaches that we must choose what we allow into our lives carefully, considering the impact it has on our spiritual well-being.