Maysir

Maysir (الميسر) is an Arabic term used in Islamic jurisprudence to describe gambling or games of chance in which participants risk wealth on uncertain outcomes. It covers activities in which gains arise primarily from luck rather than productive effort, such as lotteries, casino-style games, or betting on sports and other events, as well as various forms of drawing lots.

In Islamic sources, maysir is generally classified as forbidden (haram). The Qur’an acknowledges that gambling may produce some profit but emphasizes that its sin is greater (2:219). Other verses (such as 5:90–91) describe gambling as an abomination of Satan and urge believers to avoid it. Numerous hadiths condemn gambling, and classical jurists commonly deem maysir impermissible because it involves wealth obtained without legitimate labor and can lead to harm, exploitation, and social discord.

Forms commonly associated with maysir include lotteries, raffles, card games, dice games, and any scheme where the outcome is determined by chance rather than merit or effort. In contemporary contexts, online betting, casino gambling, and certain organized gaming practices are typically regarded as haram by most Islamic scholars and authorities.

Across many Muslim-majority countries, gambling is regulated or prohibited by law, reflecting its ethical and social concerns within Islamic law. Religious scholars emphasize prudence, social welfare, and personal responsibility, advising believers to avoid participation in maysir to prevent financial harm and moral impact on individuals and communities.