Biblical Answer

Is Gambling Explicitly Forbidden in the Bible?

#### Overview of the Issue

The Bible is silent on the subject of gambling. There is no explicit prohibition against it. This is why many people struggle with the ethics of gambling, as it is difficult to make a convincing case from Scripture against gambling as inherently sinful. However, it is possible to marshal biblical evidence against certain attitudes and behaviors that are inherent in the act of gambling.

#### A Closer Look at Biblical Evidence

The most common argument against gambling is that it calls into question God's sovereign control of our affairs. However, this argument can be turned the other way. In Scripture, gambling was specifically used in making decisions because humans are finite, and God alone knows and can influence the outcome. This is seen in the story of King Saul, who consulted God through a divination process involving a lottery (1 Samuel 14:41-42). Additionally, the Bible warns against covetousness, which is certainly a problem for the serious gambler. However, it is not necessarily the case for someone who gambles for recreation.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible does not explicitly forbid gambling. While there are certain attitudes and behaviors associated with gambling that may be considered sinful, such as covetousness, the act of gambling itself is not inherently evil. A person could gamble for recreation without violating biblical principles. The Bible does not prohibit profit-making or charging modest and fair interest rates, and it is possible to make decisions that involve risk and uncertainty without calling into question God's sovereign control. Therefore, the most responsible position for the Christian is to abstain from gambling, not because it is inherently evil, but because of the potential dangers and pitfalls associated with it.