How does Sikhi guide me on gambling? Is playing the lottery gambling?
Guidance from Gurbani
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
The Sikh faith offers clear and consistent guidance on gambling, drawing from the profound wisdom of the Guru Granth Sahib and the ethical framework of the Sikh Rehat Maryada. At its core, gambling is explicitly prohibited within Sikhi.
The Sikh Rehat Maryada
The Sikh Rehat Maryada, our code of conduct, unequivocally states:
"A Sikh must not commit theft, engage in immoral relationships, or gamble."
The Guru Granth Sahib
The sacred verses of the Guru Granth Sahib also illuminate the detrimental nature of gambling. Guru Arjan Dev Ji, in profound wisdom, shares:
"In the end, the gambler shall depart empty-handed." (Ang 1157)
And further, it is observed:
"The consciousness of the gambler is focused on gambling." (Ang 897)
These teachings highlight the spiritual and material emptiness that gambling ultimately brings.
The Principle of Kirat Karni
Central to the Sikh way of life is the principle of Kirat Karni, which emphasizes earning an honest living through diligent effort. Gambling fundamentally violates this principle, as it seeks gain through chance rather than honest labor.
Is the Lottery Gambling?
Yes, indeed. The lottery, by its very nature, is a game of pure chance played for monetary gain, and thus falls squarely within the definition of gambling as understood in Sikhi.
May this guidance bring clarity and peace.
Sources & Citations
“A Sikh must not commit theft, engage in immoral relationships, or gamble.”
“In the end, the gambler shall depart empty-handed.”
“The consciousness of the gambler is focused on gambling.”
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Translations preserve the spiritual meaning of the Guru's teachings.
Related Guidance
This guidance is drawn exclusively from the Guru Granth Sahib and the Sikh Rehat Maryada. If you believe a citation is inaccurate, please let us know.