In a world where online gambling has become a multi-billion dollar industry, a significant portion of the global community stands firm against it. In many majority-Muslim countries, including nations as diverse as Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt, online gambling is not only discouraged but is strictly prohibited by law. This prohibition is often puzzling to outsiders, who may see it as a purely religious matter. However, the reasons behind this widespread ban are multi-layered, stemming from deeply held religious principles, a strong emphasis on social welfare, and a practical concern for economic stability. Understanding this comprehensive stance requires looking beyond a single religious edict to the interconnected arguments that underpin it.

The Theological Foundation: Gambling as ‘Maysir’ in Islamic Law
The primary and most fundamental reason for the prohibition of gambling in Islam is its explicit condemnation in the Quran, the central religious text of the faith. Islamic … Read more