Al-Maisir (الميسر) in Islam
Definition
Al-Maisir (الميسر) refers to any form of game or activity of chance, which is explicitly prohibited in Islam as per various verses in the Qur’an. Initially, the term specifically described a game involving the use of arrows, popular among pagan Arabs before the advent of Islam. Today, Al-Maisir broadly encompasses all gambling activities, lotteries, and betting games where winning is based on luck or chance rather than skill or effort.
Etymology
The Arabic term “Maisir” (الميسر) is derived from the root word “y-s-r” (يسر), which means “ease” or “facilitation.” The term connotes acquiring wealth easily, without hard work or legitimate means, and it symbolizes the nature of gambling—where one can either win a lot with little effort or lose significantly.
Qur’anic Prohibition
The prohibition of Al-Maisir is explicitly stated in the Qur’an in several verses, underscoring its importance and the rationale for its forbiddance:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:219) – Discusses the sinful nature and potential benefits, concluding that the sin is greater than the benefit.
- Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:90-91) – Declares gambling, along with intoxicants, divination, and idols as abominations devised by Satan intended to sow enmity and hatred among people and turn them away from the remembrance of Allah.
Significance in Islamic Ethics and Law
Gambling is considered harmful not only to the individual but also to society. It promotes greed, disrupts economic balance, encourages unearned wealth, and can lead to addiction, financial ruin, and social disorder.
Modern Interpretation
Today, Al-Maisir includes:
- Casino gambling
- Lotteries
- Betting on sports
- Online gaming involving wagers
- Any other form of speculative and non-productive financial activity
Islamic Legal Perspectives
Islamic scholars across different schools of thought unanimously agree on the prohibition (haram) of Al-Maisir based on the Qur’anic injunctions and Hadith literature. The consensus emphasizes the need for Muslims to avoid any activities involving gambling to maintain moral and social integrity.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam” by Yusuf al-Qaradawi
- “Gambling and the Common Man” by Abu Rumaysah
- “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Joseph Schacht
Takeaways
- Al-Maisir symbolizes the prohibition of gambling and other games of chance in Islam.
- Derived from the Qur’anic instructions, the prohibition focuses on maintaining social and personal ethics.
- Gambling is recognized for its potential to cause social and personal harm.
Conclusion
In summary, Al-Maisir (الميسر) stands as a Qur’anic symbol against all forms of gambling and games of chance, emphasizing the importance of ethical living and legitimate means of earning. Its prohibition seeks to maintain societal harmony, ethical behavior, and personal integrity among Muslims.
