Gambling (Arabic: maisir, ميسر; qimār, قمار)
Definition and Etymology
Gambling in the context of Islam is referred to as maisir (ميسر) and qimār (قمار) in Arabic. The term maisir pertains to any game of chance where there is an element of betting or gambling. The word qimār specifically refers to gambling, indicating any kind of wagering on uncertain outcomes.
Qur’anic Prohibition
The prohibition of gambling is explicitly stated in the Qur’an in two significant verses:
- Sūrah 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.’”
- Sūrah Al-Ma’idah (5:90-91): “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. Satan only wants to cause between you animosity and hatred through intoxicants and gambling and to avert you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer. So will you not desist?”
These verses highlight that although gambling might have some perceived benefits, its sinful nature and potential for harm far exceed these benefits. Furthermore, gambling is associated with causing enmity and distractions from the remembrance of God and prayer.
Legal and Ethical Implications
In Islamic jurisprudence, gambling is classified under major sins (kabā’ir) and is strictly prohibited. One of the significant legal implications is:
- The evidence provided by a gambler is not admissible in an Islamic court of law due to the disreputable standing associated with indulging in gambling. This highlights the severity with which gambling is viewed in Islamic ethics and law (source: Hidāyah, Volume II, p. 688).
Further Readings and References
For those interested in delving deeper into the topic of gambling in Islam, the following books provide comprehensive insights:
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al.
- “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Wael B. Hallaq
- “Islamic Ethics: Fundamental Aspects of Following God’s Will in Islam” by David R. Vishanoff
- “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
Takeaways and Conclusion
Gambling (maisir, qimār) is unequivocally forbidden in Islam, as highlighted by the clear denunciations found within the Qur’an. This prohibition seeks to prevent the social harms and moral decay associated with gambling, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and spiritual awareness. Understanding the severity of gambling’s prohibition encourages Muslims to steer clear of such practices and uphold the values prescribed in Islamic teachings.
In conclusion, gambling not only jeopardizes personal ethics but also disrupts societal harmony, making its prohibition a vital aspect of Islamic jurisprudence and lifestyle.
