About the halacha of humour & mockery

JOHN BRENNER

John Brenner of Johannesburg writes:

Collins Dictionary defines to mock, is to behave with scorn and contempt: and to joke is something said or done for fun or inspiring amusement or ridicule, or to speak or act in fun or facetiously.

I have attended lectures by Rabbi Berel Wein in Jerusalem and he raises a smile/giggle at least three to five times in a lecture.

Two examples of what could be construed as humour or an insult are (1) I never forget a face, but in your case I’ll make an exception (attributed to Groucho Marx and (2) John Berk: “It’s been a pleasure to meet you.” Jackie: “I wish I could say the same.” (Attributed to J Mason).