THE EDITOR, Sir:
THIS IN response to the letter 'Where does the Bible prohibit gambling?' published Wednesday, July 28. Before real discussion begins on gambling, one has to get behind the glitz and false hope pushed by the gambling promoters.
Gambling is NOT entertainment, as touted by the pushers. It is a predatory activity. When one gambles, he or she wants to take what belongs to others without earning it or it being given freely as a gift would be. Under any other circumstances, that is robbery or theft.
In fact, gambling has been called theft by consent or robbery with permission. The 10Commandments address both coveting and stealing. Gambling undermines, and even destroys, the work ethic. Labour is advocated in the Bible. Ordinary activities all have an element of risk-taking in them... even crossing the street does. This is very different from gambling.
Gambling's negatives include addiction, bankruptcies, crime, corruption, divorce, violence, child abuse, homelessness, etc. Gambling recycles wealth, usually from many losers to the pockets of the gambling kingpins. It does not create new wealth.
The recent legalisation of gambling has desensitised people to its harmful effects and the reasons it was an illegal activity in most countries. Wise people learn from the mistakes of others. There are many people and countries which have made the mistake of embracing gambling to their detriment. The Bible advocates wisdom whether Jewish or Christian that is not bad advice for any person or government.
I am, etc.,
DIANNE M. BERLIN
DMBerlin@aol.com
Penryn, PA, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
