Gambling exists in diverse forms across the globe — from community-based card games to underground betting networks and state-run lotteries. How cultures perceive and regulate gambling often reflects deeply rooted religious, legal, and social values. In this article, we explore how gambling is viewed and practised in countries like Japan, India, Saudi Arabia, and others, offering a cultural lens into this complex activity.
Legal Boundaries and Underground Gambling Practices
In many countries, gambling is either heavily regulated or outright banned. However, prohibition does not always equate to the absence of gambling. In places like Saudi Arabia, where Sharia law forbids all forms of gambling, underground betting operations persist in secrecy, especially among expat communities. Law enforcement regularly cracks down on these illegal venues, but demand keeps them resurfacing.
Japan, on the other hand, prohibits most forms of gambling with some notable exceptions. Pachinko parlours — a unique form of pinball-like gaming — thrive legally due to a loophole allowing players to exchange tokens for prizes, which can then be converted to cash outside the parlour. Similarly, India bans most gambling under the Public Gambling Act of 1867, yet online games of skill like rummy and fantasy cricket are booming, skating around outdated legislation.
Even in nations where gambling is technically illegal, such as Thailand and the UAE, unlicensed gaming dens and digital betting apps continue to attract participants. The legal grey zones and outdated laws provide cover for these operations, often backed by criminal networks.
Exceptions and Legal Loopholes
Several jurisdictions use regulatory loopholes to allow selective forms of gambling. In Japan, horse racing and lottery are state-sanctioned, whereas other forms are criminalised. India allows state lotteries and has separate laws in states like Sikkim and Goa, where casinos operate legally. These exceptions are often tied to revenue generation for local governments.
In China, mainland gambling is banned, but the Special Administrative Region of Macau operates one of the world’s largest legal gambling economies. The contrast between strict mainland policies and the liberalised rules of Macau reflects a broader trend of regional exceptions shaping gambling access.
In the Middle East, exceptions are rare. Nonetheless, some forms of financial speculation, such as certain stock market derivatives or forex trading, are gaining popularity under the guise of investment — though religious scholars debate their legitimacy.
Traditional Games and Cultural Heritage
Beyond modern gambling venues, traditional games have long been woven into the cultural fabric of various societies. These games often predate colonial laws and sometimes survive through informal, family-based or community play. They reflect not just a desire for chance but social rituals and storytelling.
In Japan, mahjong — originally from China — is played both socially and in competitive circuits. While betting is technically illegal, small-stakes games among friends remain common. The game is seen more as a strategic pastime than a gambling endeavour in domestic contexts.
India boasts a rich history of indigenous games like andar-bahar and teen patti, especially during festivals like Diwali. Though these are illegal in most public settings, they remain widespread in private celebrations. These games are viewed not just as pastimes but part of cultural and familial tradition.
Games Rooted in Social Rituals
Fan-tan, an ancient Chinese game, was once prevalent across Southeast Asia and remains a symbol of communal entertainment among older generations. It has largely been replaced by digital games in younger circles but holds nostalgic value for many.
In Africa, the mancala family of games often includes strategic elements that blend play and local competition, though they typically do not involve money. However, modern adaptations have introduced monetary stakes in urban contexts, raising debates about cultural preservation versus commercialisation.
Even in Latin America, games like lotería have spiritual and festive significance. Though usually played for small prizes, the communal nature emphasises bonding rather than profit. These traditional games often highlight the blurred line between gambling, luck, and culture.
Religion, Society and the Ethics of Gambling
Religious teachings strongly influence gambling acceptance across various cultures. In predominantly Muslim countries such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Indonesia, gambling is considered haram (forbidden) based on Islamic law. Even digital lotteries or sports bets are socially condemned, and participants risk not only legal punishment but also community ostracism.
In India, where multiple religions coexist, the views on gambling are mixed. Hinduism traditionally associates gambling with moral tales — like the game of dice in the Mahabharata — offering lessons rather than approval. Sikhism generally opposes gambling, while some Buddhist traditions warn against it due to its association with desire and suffering.
Western societies often separate religious doctrine from law, but moral debates still arise. In Christian-majority nations, gambling is sometimes seen as a social vice, especially where addiction rates are high. Protestant denominations may preach moderation, while Catholic countries might tolerate games like bingo for charitable fundraising.
Gambling as a Social Indicator
In many cultures, gambling reflects socioeconomic divides. In affluent societies, it’s often a leisure activity, while in poorer regions it may represent a desperate hope for financial change. This duality influences how gambling is morally perceived and legislatively treated.
In Singapore, gambling addiction is a public health concern despite the city-state’s legal casinos. The government funds counselling and restricts access for at-risk individuals. These measures signal a recognition of gambling’s societal impact beyond legal status alone.
Meanwhile, in places like the UK and Australia, gambling is deeply entrenched in sports culture and everyday life. Regulatory frameworks are robust, but public discourse frequently debates the ethical implications of advertising and access, especially among youth.