We have seen that to speak derogatorily of one’s fellow is to degrade one’s own status as a creation b’tzelem Elokim (in God’s image).
For one who speaks loshon hora, the teshuva (repentance) process is the same as for all sins between man and his Creator: confession, sincere regret, and the resolution never to speak loshon hora again.
One is not required to discuss the matter with the subject on one’s sinful words and seek his forgiveness, unless actual harm was caused. (Teshuvah for having caused harm through loshon hora will be discussed later.)
