Is Gambling Haram in Islam?
This is an independent, informational guide for UK readers and is not affiliated with the organisations mentioned. It is provided for general information only.
In mainstream Islamic teaching, gambling is widely regarded as haram, meaning forbidden. It is referred to in the Quran as maisir, and the prohibition is generally understood from passages that discourage and then forbid it, placing games of chance for money outside what is permitted. This page explains that view for general information.
The mainstream view
In mainstream Islamic teaching, gambling is widely regarded as haram, meaning forbidden. It is referred to in the Quran as maisir, and is generally understood to be prohibited.
Gambling is often mentioned alongside intoxicants, and the prohibition is treated by most scholars as clear.
What the texts are understood to say
Two passages are commonly cited. One (in chapter 2) acknowledges that gambling has some benefit but says its harm is greater; another (in chapter 5) is read as a firmer prohibition, grouping gambling with intoxicants as something to avoid.
Scholars across the main schools of thought generally agree on the prohibition, even where they discuss the finer points.
The reasoning behind it
The reasons usually given include the risk of addiction and financial ruin, money gained without genuine effort, and the disputes and neglect of duties that gambling can cause.
Everyday questions — such as lotteries or charity raffles — are usually treated as falling under the same principle, though scholars sometimes discuss specific cases.
Where to find guidance
Because the finer points can depend on the situation, Muslims with specific questions usually turn to a qualified scholar or imam for guidance.
This page sets out the mainstream view for general information; it is not a religious ruling.
It is worth stressing that this page describes the mainstream position rather than issuing any ruling, and that individual questions are best taken to a qualified scholar. The broad point most teachings share is a concern with the harm, dependency and unearned gain that gambling can involve.
Why is gambling considered haram?
Most scholars read the Quran as prohibiting it, and point to harms such as addiction, debt and gaining money without effort.
Does this include the lottery?
Lotteries are generally treated as a form of gambling and so fall under the same prohibition in mainstream teaching.
Who should I ask for a religious ruling?
A qualified scholar or imam. This page is general information, not a religious ruling.
Are charity raffles treated the same way?
Scholars discuss specific cases, but games of chance for money are generally treated under the same principle; ask a scholar for a ruling.
Related guides: Is gambling a sin?, Responsible gambling, Lottery odds explained
18+ only. Gambling should be fun, not a way to make money. If you are worried about your gambling, or affected by someone else's, free and confidential help is available from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, from BeGambleAware.org, and through the self-exclusion scheme GAMSTOP. You must be 18 or over to gamble.