Friday Sermon Reflection: The Harm of Gambling and Intoxicants in Islam

In today's Friday sermon, worshippers were reminded of the profound wisdom in Allah’s command to avoid gambling and intoxicants, which are described as harmful traps laid by Satan. The sermon stressed that such evils are meant to sow discord, animosity, and diversion from the path of righteousness. The Sermon highlighted a key verse from the Quran: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, (sacrificing on) stone alters (to other than Allah), and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful” (Quran 5:90). The message emphasized how these vices are not only spiritually destructive but also lead to moral decay, social problems, and financial ruin.

The sermon further explored the detrimental impact of gambling, describing it as an unjust means of acquiring wealth, often resulting in the financial ruin of individuals and families. The Sermon warned that gambling fosters laziness by promoting the false hope of quick wealth, while in reality, it pushes people into poverty and debt. It was stressed that gambling can lead to other major sins such as lying, theft, and even addiction. Families torn apart, children neglected, and lives ruined were cited as real consequences of engaging in these harmful practices. In the modern era, gambling has taken on new forms through online platforms, making it more accessible and dangerous, especially for young people.

Another key point discussed was how gambling takes away from the remembrance of Allah and leads people to neglect their prayers. The sermon reminded worshippers that a person’s wealth must be earned through lawful and honest means, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “No flesh nourished by unlawful means will enter Paradise; the Fire is more deserving of it.” Gambling not only harms the individual spiritually but also causes significant social damage, leading to disputes, theft, and in extreme cases, mental health struggles or even suicide. The imam highlighted that no matter how glamorous or tempting gambling may appear, its negative consequences far outweigh any temporary gain.

The sermon concluded with a call for Muslims to be vigilant, urging them to protect their families and communities from the widespread dangers of modern-day gambling, including online forms and lotteries. It also reminded parents to be especially cautious in safeguarding their children from these traps, which often present themselves in seemingly harmless forms. The sermon closed with a heartfelt prayer, asking Allah to guide the community away from sinful acts, bless the nation with lawful prosperity, and grant success and righteousness to its leaders. May Allah protect us from the evils of gambling and all that distances us from His path.