What Do World Religions Say About Gambling?

Short Answer: Most world religions have a negative view of gambling and will discourage it in some way. Other religions will ban or forbid it entirely while the extreme end will physically punish gamblers. Some see it as a form of theft, others state the harmful effects it has, and some simply say it is a sin because of greed. A few religions will allow gambling if it is done fairly - with no cheating or fraud involved. The questions of morality and legality become blurred when a government gets involved by having an oversight position, especially when it can receive taxes.

Due to the adult and addictive nature of gambling, it is not surprising that religions will avoid this activity.

Christianity 31

Islam 25

Hinduism 15

Buddhism 7

Judaism The Rabbi's have much to say about gambling. It is regarded as doing nothing beneficial for society, having a loser never being at peace with the winner, and having addictive qualities. At certain times, gamblers were disqualified to be court witnesses. Nonetheless, gambling occurs and it seems much money was lost to Yassir Arafat's casino in Jericho. Some types of gambling are overlooked among Jewish people. While not recommended, some Rabbi's have allowed a government lottery as a type of tax and the benefits of Bingo as a form of fundraising seem to outweigh the moral objections. The one form of gambling that has been accepted is playing with the Dreidel or cards on Chanukah as it has become part of the memorial and history of the Chasmonean revolt.

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