Gambling in Islam

Introduction

Gambling, known in Arabic as “الميسر” (maysir) or “المقامرة” (qimar), refers to activities involving betting for money or property and undue speculation. It is strictly prohibited in Islamic law (Shari’a).

Etymology and Terminology

• Arabic: ميسر (maysir) and قمار (qimar)
• Turkish: Kumar

Quranic Reference

1. Maysir: The term maysir is a pre-Islamic term used to refer to games of chance, mostly those involving wine and arrows.

   • Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:219): “They ask you about wine and gambling. Say, ‘In them is great sin and [yet, some] benefit for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit.’”
   • Quran, Surah Al-Ma’ida (5:90): “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.”

2. Qimar: Often referenced in Islamic jurisprudence to broadly represent activities of gambling.

Prohibition in Islamic Law

Islamic law unequivocally lays down the prohibition of all forms of gambling. Jurists have deeply explored and defined activities that fall under qimar. These include but are not limited to:

• Betting on sports, card games
• Horse racing with money wagers
• Lottery systems

Theological and Ethical Rationale

The prohibition of gambling in Islamic thought is rooted in:

• Prevention of harm and exploitation: Gambling often leads to financial ruin, addiction, and social distress.
• Promotion of social justice: It is considered a form of earning without hardworking, which contradicts the values of fairness and legitimate trade promoted by Islam.

Key Interpretations by Islamic Scholars

1. Al-Ghazali (1058-1111): Emphasized the moral corruption and heedlessness caused by gambling activities.
2. Ibn Taymiyyah (1263-1328): Highlighted the societal degradation and familial disruption due to gambling.

Further Readings

For those who seek a deeper understanding of the Islamic perspectives on gambling and related topics, the following books are recommended:

1. “The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam” by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
2. “Introduction to Islamic Law” by Joseph Schacht
3. “Ethical Theories in Islam” by Majid Fakhry

Conclusion

Gambling, through its Qur’anic terms maysir and qimar, is unequivocally prohibited in Islam for its inherent harm and unethical nature. Islamic scholars provide in-depth enumerations of gambling-related activities and stress their negative impact on individuals and society.

Takeaways

• Gambling is absolutely impermissible in Islam under both Qur’anic codes and Shari’a law.
• Ethical foundations in Islamic travel extend from preventing social and individual harm to fostering ethical economic conduct.
• Notable books offer enriched perspectives on comprehensive Islamic ethical theories and legal foundations that address the concept of gambling.