Gambling and Religion. Beliefs or Choices?

[Samlucky O]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Generally religious people have strict view on gambling simply because it goes contrary to the laws of there religion. Gambling always exposes people to dangers that will make them go contrary to the laws of a particular religion, thats why religious people don't like gambling.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?

I have never encountered such conflict before. For me I see gambling as a normal thing. Though I am a religious person but I don't see gamble to the extent of having problem with my belief or having conflict between Religious believe and gambling.

How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

They see gambling as something that can expose a person to a reckless lifestyle which may Leed to distruction or addiction.

[Dewi Aries]

certain actions cannot be accepted, even if some religions would allow it...
gambling itself is not part of these actions. by nature it's something fun and intrinsic of human nature.
if gambling instead becomes a problem of addiction, neglecting the family, one's work, leading a wrong life is certain to become an action to be condemned.

Exactly, I agree with your idea, on the other hand yes if we talk about whether gambling is prohibited or not in a religion then it is clear as you said that there are some religions that allow it but there are also some religions that strictly prohibit this activity by their followers which is one of them such as Islam, and if we talk or argue everything based on their respective religions then obviously I think it will never be finished and the problem will most likely become very complicated because of the difference of opinion.

But yes I think there is an easy way to simplify it and you have said something right above which is that we have to discuss this with a neutral point of view and realistically which is the fact that gambling can be a fun activity, but it can also be an activity that is very harmful to someone's life if done in the wrong way, And we can see how the state of someone who is already addicted, they always experience a lot of pressure and tension to stress and all of that happens as a result of treating gambling in the wrong way, meaning that something that can potentially destroy life should not be done and I believe that all religions must want the best for their people.

[Fatunad]

certain actions cannot be accepted, even if some religions would allow it...
gambling itself is not part of these actions. by nature it's something fun and intrinsic of human nature.
if gambling instead becomes a problem of addiction, neglecting the family, one's work, leading a wrong life is certain to become an action to be condemned.

Exactly, I agree with your idea, on the other hand yes if we talk about whether gambling is prohibited or not in a religion then it is clear as you said that there are some religions that allow it but there are also some religions that strictly prohibit this activity by their followers which is one of them such as Islam, and if we talk or argue everything based on their respective religions then obviously I think it will never be finished and the problem will most likely become very complicated because of the difference of opinion.

But yes I think there is an easy way to simplify it and you have said something right above which is that we have to discuss this with a neutral point of view and realistically which is the fact that gambling can be a fun activity, but it can also be an activity that is very harmful to someone's life if done in the wrong way, And we can see how the state of someone who is already addicted, they always experience a lot of pressure and tension to stress and all of that happens as a result of treating gambling in the wrong way, meaning that something that can potentially destroy life should not be done and I believe that all religions must want the best for their people.

Following it or would be going against it will really be that totally be depending into someones decision and preference. Even if he does know that its prohibited but still continuing on dealing with it just because he/she do find it interesting or something that he/she really likes on dealing or playing with it then there's nothing you can do. People wont care if its a sin or not into religious approach or aspect. They dont really just that care because the thing that comes up into their mind is that playing gambling wont really be that a huge violation or prohibited thing as long they arent that putting someone in harm then its something that they will really be thinking up and this is why they do care less and would continuing on playing despite of those prohibitions and there's nothing we can do about it.

Belief or Choices? People would really be sticking into their choices on which this is something that be influenced on what are the things that comes up into someones mind on which it would be usually be sticking into the interest that they do have in mind. There are really things on which it shouldnt really be that trying out to connect because people would really be just that tending to stick out on what
are those things that they do want to deal with and doesnt matter if it goes against their Religion then they wont really care at all.

[uneng]

How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

Some religions view the pursue for money in life as a serious sin, so they include gambling as a sin, because they consider it synonym of greed and think when you gamble, you are getting your focus from God to put on the search for money, material treasures and personal glory, or in other words: the throne of dust. However, these religions have very narrowed interpretations on this matter, because it's totally possible for an individual to achieve balance on his life, being a gambler and at same time not putting this practice above everything else in his life, including God.

Many will say the same, but I guess it is because they aren't into Bible reading that deep, I understand but it is not true that there is no where in the Bible that says that gambling is a sin.

The first Timothy 6:9, 10 says the following..

Gambling even with the smallest amount can arouse a destructive love for money.

Isiah 65:11 says the following....

Gamblers often rely on superstitions or luck. However, God views such beliefs as a form of idolatry, which is incompatible with his worship.

When something isn't compatible with your God's worship that makes it a sin, some part sounds like protection of the people from destruction too but all saying the same thing.

Here is another, from the book of Galatians 5:26, it says

Gambling can arouse an unhealthy competitive spirit, which is disapproved in the Bible.

So now are we going to keep saying that there is nowhere in the Bible that says gambling is a sin?

I'm really not happy with the way you choose to misquote the bible all in the name to prove points, it is completely useless and this shows that you are not a Christian by religion and in a way be against it. The bible only talks about excessive love for money that triggers a get rich quick scheme which implies disobeying the commandments (like stealing and more) but no where did the bible talk about gambling.

People now see religion differently, the deal to one's eternity is something personal and not a matter of any religion. Religion is just like a step/guide towards achieving that eternity, so there are rules being laid by the fore rulers to help us in this our journey, this rules keeps us on the better part so we do not mistakenly fall into breaking those commandments. So I do not see how religion should affect me gambling.

As we can see the quotations from The Bible, no one of them forbids gambling, but alerts to the possibility of triggering excessive behavior or desire on the heart of the gambler for disfunctional practices which will put the search for money above everything else in his life. Words like "can" and "often" indicate us that, although none of them clearly states gambling will be destructive in every cases. If the individual can control his impulses he is fine to maintain gambling as a functional practice in his life, and that is what matters.

[Baofeng]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

I don't think that gamblers here have conflicts from their religious beliefs because it they are then obviously they are not going to choose to play and gamble. And I have known a lot of gamblers who goes to church every Sunday and yet they are inside the casinos after that or play online.

So for me, there's none, I might not be as a devoted as others in my religion, but if you look at it, there are religious denomination that requires you to give part of your earnings to their church and for me that is not right as if you are forcing them, just saying.

[acroman08]

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling?

I am not a religious person, so no I have not faced conflict with my "religious beliefs" versus gambling but I faced religious people judging me or expressing their disdain about my gambling habits and the best way to handle them is to either ignore them or talk back about their hypocrisy(doing this usually shut them up or will get them angry which is funny). as for "How do different religions view gambling", that entirely depends on their beliefs, but I assume the majority of them view gambling as a sin.

The reason was simple, religious people believed gambling is owned by devils. I don't know where you can find in the bible that states gambling is a sin

No where in the Bible that says gambling is a sin.

true, it was never stated in the bible that gambling is a sin(I knew this not because I read the entirety of the bible but from conversations and articles I have read), that being said, the people who believe in the bible think that gambling brings greed which is one of the seven deadly sins in their religion.

[Onyeeze]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

A gamblers doesn't look after religion because culturally many religion doesn't accept gambling but people still break the law to enhance that they have participated in gambling, I know very well that gambling should be most of the things we know that religion can not make people to depart from gambling, I know very well that when participating in gambling you have the full chase that neither good or bad you will participate in gambling, but I don't know for others because religion can not deprived you to gamble as you want or needed.

[Miles2006]

I believe people just personally choose not to gamble and if religion could affect gambling choice I think just few number of people will gamble. I don’t think my religion will go against gambling sooner or later but if that should happen definitely I will quit gambling but, seeing this topic reminds me of the Islamic religion going against gambling and yet do they still engage in gambling cause it’s kind of complicated if a gambler should stop gambling because the religion is against gambling.

[mirakal]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?

I don't have problem with my religion and my gambling habit, its putting things in the right perspective and putting more value on what should be more valueable in life, of course religion is very important its our guide to right living and how to conduct ourselves in this world.
Gambling should take a back seat when it comes to religion, I know what is my priority and gambling for me is for entertainment and I can always leave it when religion matters needs my attention.
The Cause of depression in gambling is prioritizing more than what's important in life.

As much as almost all religions are against with gambling, but that is if you try to praise more of your gambling habits rather than your own religion. Luckily, I don’t have to experience that because I will always respect my religion and its beliefs, and when it comes to gambling, I don’t gamble to maximize time earnings, but I only gamble just for fun, and so far I’ve no problems with it. There will only be problems if you forgot to value your own religion, and do things that are obviously against your religion. That is definitely a big sin.

[robelneo]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

They are not faithful followers and believers of their religion if their religion forbids them to engage in gambling, but some religions have liberal views on gambling, although they do not restrict it, they let the followers decide as long as they still prioritize their religion.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

I used to when I was very active in gambling; although my religion is not very strict in gambling, I soon learned to put priority on what matters the most, and that is what has a positive effect on my life, which is religion.
I still gamble, but I make sure there is no conflict monetary and on schedule.

[Yatsan]

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

Speaking for those I know who have conflict of interest between religious teachings and their gambling habits. The idea of haandling it is simply choosing between following the teachings of your religion haaving this concern, or choosing to not follow gambling prohibition. There's no other way to handle this simply because this activity and the teachings are not aligned in the first place. In some religions, they are strict with reminding their believers that gambling is totally wrong while there are also religions which are neutral about it. Personally, I am not that religious which is why I'm here. Thus, to those who have been following a certain religious belief, you better choose already because if you won't, conflict of interest will just continue affecting one or the other.

[blockman]

I used to when I was very active in gambling; although my religion is not very strict in gambling, I soon learned to put priority on what matters the most, and that is what has a positive effect on my life, which is religion.
I still gamble, but I make sure there is no conflict monetary and on schedule.

When you have an obligation in your church or religion, you have to be committed on it and that's like going to be your life. But as you've said, as long as it doesn't affect what you are up to with your beliefs and related to finance and no conflict of schedule then it means that you are doing better and you're good in management. But for the others that don't know how to manage their time and finances and it's always a complicated thing to them when its come to gambling and their beliefs, they need to do better and set their priorities.

[HelliumZ]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

Gambling is strictly forbidden in my Muslim community and earnings from gambling have been declared completely haram. We as a Muslim community cannot involve ourselves in gambling even if we want to because it is an affront to religion. Since we believe in religion, we must give up gambling to give priority to religion. If gambling and religion and faith are said to be accepted together and in that case if one is pious and a believer then he can never involve himself in gambling because for a pious believer religion is much greater than extra profit.

[alegotardo]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

I am Catholic, my religion is not against gambling, but our customs are not as strict as other religions.
This way, even though religion has a lot of influence, I can tell you that the answer to whether to play or not is much more involved with the habits of each player than what your religion tells you to do.

However, as I said initially, in some religions the restriction is so great that there is not even a habit of gambling. Islam's prohibition of gambling, for example, is indisputable in accordance with the provisions of the Holy Quran and many other accounts of its tradition. Muslims in general argue that the prohibition of gambling is an almost supreme necessity and that anyone who goes against it is considered an apostate. In other words, you cannot play, teach or learn gambling, sell, buy or manufacture gaming devices or websites, even sit where games are played or even greet a player... everything is prohibited in Islamic provisions.

[Slow death]

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?

fortunately I'm not religious, although I was more inclined towards the Christian religion and in this religion they don't prohibit gambling that I know of, so I'm very happy that I can play at will without worrying about things like opinions coming from religious people, apart from The sad thing about this issue of religion is that in those religions that prohibit gambling, they are unable to give convincing arguments that gambling is actually a sin in religious terms, because the people who gamble are not harming anyone, so How would they be committing sin? it just doesn't make any sense

How do different religions view gambling?

This article is very rich in terms of information about gambling:

Religious Perspectives on Gambling

There is no single religious perspective on gambling, as different religions and denominations hold varying beliefs about the morality of the practice. Here, we will explore some of the views held by major world religions:

Christianity: Opinions on gambling within Christianity vary widely, with some denominations condemning the practice outright, while others take a more moderate stance. The Catholic Church, for example, does not view gambling as inherently sinful but warns against excessive gambling and its potential to harm individuals and society.

Judaism: Jewish law prohibits gambling for profit but allows it in certain social contexts, such as a friendly game among friends. The Talmud, a central text in Jewish tradition, contains several discussions on the ethics of gambling.

Islam: Gambling is generally considered haram (forbidden) in Islam, as it is seen as a form of moral corruption and can lead to financial ruin. The Quran specifically mentions gambling as an abomination and a work of Satan (Quran 5:90-91).

Buddhism: Buddhism does not have a strict prohibition on gambling, but the practice is generally discouraged, as it can lead to suffering and attachment to material possessions.

source: https://www.edinburghpresbytery.org.uk/gambling-vs-religion/

It's very strange how people allow themselves to be manipulated by religion, and then commit crimes and atrocities in the name of religion. Here in my country, for example, every year more than 2 churches appear with different views of the world, some of these churches prohibit many things, including banning gambling, but they forget that the government of my country allows gambling

What could be the reasons behind it?

control people

[Dzigie]

How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

I don't believe in any religion, but I have researched this issue before.

There are verses in Islam that directly prohibit gambling. In Christianity, there are no such verses, but criticisms such as unjust gain and waste are associated with gambling. In Judaism, gambling is seen as a useless habit.

Religions have prohibited gambling to protect the peace of society and the moral law.

People who gamble sometimes disagree and clash with each other. I think the purpose of religion is to prevent situations like this. Also, gambling causes addictions. Gambling addiction can lead to psychological and physical problems. Also, I have seen people who gambled away their family's food money. Also, I have seen some people who gamble lose their families.

Religions have created some solutions for people who had problems in the past. I don't think we need them, but there are still people who need them. Religions are cultural heritages that provide solutions for social problems.

[Hispo]

There are some religions that have strict views on gambling, some considering it morally wrong. However, people still gamble for various reasons.

Have you ever faced any conflicts between your religious beliefs versus gambling? How it happen and how did you handle it?
How do different religions view gambling? What could be the reasons behind it?

I have not faced any problems with my religion and gambling, the Catholic religion for some reason is very permissive when comes to allowing people to partake in activities with could be considered to be very sinful in other churches: gambling, drinking... Etc. there is an emphasis on just being careful not to lose control over the responsability each one of us has as adults and members of a family. It is quite flexible.
My parents used to gamble and they continue to drink a little bit in special occasions as well, so I do.
I have always wanted to meet someone who is part of the Islamic religion, there is an important percentage of muslins here in my country but they seem to be rather ostracized from the rest of our customs and celebrations, probably because we like to celebrate with alcohol and pork.


So in conclusion, no problems. Society here is quite progressive in what one is supposed to do with one's money in the end of the month.

[mamesso]

Different views on gambling depend on the rules taught in religion, countries with a majority Muslim population consider gambling to be illegal because it is against religious teachings, whereas in non-Muslim countries it is very easy to find gambling places because there are no rules prohibiting gambling activities. Gambling and religion cannot be linked to all aspects of human life, Islam strictly prohibits gambling, but there are still many people who embrace Islam who are still massive gamblers. A person's level of faith is a benchmark in every activity they undertake, including those that conflict with religion. The lines that have been determined in religion are beliefs not to get involved in gambling, but they have chosen their own path even though it is contrary to religious teachings.

[retreat]

We don't need to discuss a person's religion and their gambling, as that is their privacy and personal matter. Moreover, if we discuss this matter, then every person who is religious and also gambles, will also be confused about what to answer, because most religions prohibit their followers from gambling because it is closely related to worldly matters. So let's just leave someone's religion and gambling alone because it's not our place to discuss that.

[DubemIfedigbo001]

However, people still gamble for various reasons.

We can assume that the people who still gamble are not from the religion that prohibits it or if they are they are not very religious. In reality too, almost every religion is averse to gambling, Islam is the only one I know that expressly prohibits any form of riba which will include gambling and also investing in Bitcoin, but Christianity is not welcoming of gambling either or any other religion for that matter.

I do not expect anyone to openly here discuss how they participate in something that is expressly prohibited by their religion.

The main rift between religion and gambling is simple, religion casts their concentration more on the negative  aspect of something rather than any assumed positives while making decisions. The man of God would be quick to point out to you the damages and its bad effect on the society before even thinking that its a fun thing if done in moderation.

Gambling is really a personal choice to make and has no strings attached to any religion, especially for me who doesn't agree with every teaching of my church, I feel I still have the right to make good choices for myself that would suite me and at the same time dodn't hurt anyone or myself. That's more like using your head yourself and not allowing the clergy man use it for you.

I've chosen to gamble occasionally, that's my choice and it doesn't stop me from fulfilling my religious obligations too, so its a win win situation.