The Damage of Lashon Hara

In the list of Mitzrayim's sons (Bereishis 10:13-14), the Abir Yaakov found a lesson about lashon hara. The gematria of Mitzrayim (380) equals that of lashon, spelled without a vav. Ludim, from the word for a newborn, and Anamim, from the word for pleasant, hint that every person is born pleasant and beloved. Lashon hara brings Lehavim, flames of hatred, then Naftuchim, from the word for opening, since it opens the bonds between friends. Patrusim and Casluchim allude to bread and drink, meaning tzedakah, and to war, since even a recipient of kindness can be turned against his benefactor. Finally Caphtorim, from kofer (one who denies) and Torah, means that a person who speaks lashon hara may come to deny the Torah itself.