A behavior having a
long history in Indian society, but one that Hindu scriptures nearly usually
depict negatively.
The Rg Veda, the oldest Hindu sacred literature, has the
first mention in a song known as "The Gambler's Lament." The hymn is
a first-person narrative of a gamer's infatuation with gaming and how it
wrecked his life.
It concludes with a caution to the listener not to be lured
by the seductive call of gambling.
The Mahabharata, the second of the two major Hindu epics,
likewise portrays gambling in a bad light.
Yudhishthira's (the oldest of the five Pandava brothers who
are the epic's heroes) main flaw is a gaming addiction, but it has terrible
consequences.
Yudhishthira loses his kingdom, his brothers, and even
himself in a dice game with the realm's most skilled player, Shakuni; as a
consequence of the game, he and his brothers must go into exile.
These legendary representations reflect Hindu society's
views toward gambling.
Sober and honest Hindus have traditionally avoided gambling
games since they are not a reliable or acceptable means to risk one's money or
make a livelihood.
The only time when caution and prudence may be justified is
during the Diwali celebration, which is dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of
riches and prosperity.
Gambling is a traditional aspect of Diwali celebrations, and
it is used to honor Lakshmi as Lady Luck.
Diwali is most often celebrated in people's homes, therefore
any gaming will take place among friends and family, with solely minimal
wagering.
Apart from Diwali, gambling is absolutely prohibited in
polite society, and its disruptive potential is severely limited even on
Diwali.
You may also want to read more about Hinduism here.
Be sure to check out my writings on religion here.
