Is Gambling a Sin? What the Holy Books Say

Have you ever thought how different religions and their holy scripts see gambling? In this article we will find out if gambling is a sin based on the Bible and the Quran.

Gambling and placing bets has been popular past-time for humans for thousands of years. Due to being illegal or socially unacceptable activity in some regions and countries in the world, some might think if it is a sin to gamble. Let's see what the Bible and Quran say about this.

The Bible: Gambling Is Entertainment - Not Forbidden

There is no such thing as a direct mention in the Bible whether gambling is accepted or not. But several mentions can be interpret that gambling can be both good and bad in the eyes of God. After all it comes down to how one handles his gambling activities.

They actually gamble in the Bible. To decide Judas' follower, the apostles rely on casting lots (throwing dice):

• Acts 1:26 – “Then they cast lots, and the lot fell on Matthias…"

Also games of chance have been used to settle disputes, share land and making decisions for example in Leviticus 16:8, Joshua 18:10 and others. If they have used "chance" under God's authority in the Bible, it makes a good argument of gambling being acceptable in the eyes of God. To be clear, based on the Bible, gambling is not a sin.

While taking part in gambling may not be forbidden by the Bible, you should always consider the following when you are trying to assess your own gaming behavior in terms of the holy book.

1. Is it harmful to you or others?
2. Is gambling controlling you and you not it?
3. Are you gambling because of greed?

What the Quran Says - Is Gambling Haram?

Unlike the Bibel, the Quran is very clear and concise about gambling. It falls under the same category with alcohol as haram and it is urged to be avoided. Winnings from gambling are considered as unjustified earnings unlike halal investing and business income.

However, many muslims still gamble for fun and entertainment especially in more secular societies where gambling is considered widely socially acceptable and is culturally popular past-time. Some people know it is haram, some don't and many just don't think about it. Sometimes personal struggles, curiosity or hope for financial gains can lead to gambling even knowing it is against the teachings of the Quran.

Even though, gambling is considered a sin in islamic society, one can find understanding, support and forgiveness in the words of the Quran:

“Say, O My servants who have transgressed against themselves (by sinning), do not despair of the mercy of Allah.” (Surah Az-Zumar 39:53)