Egypt's foremost religious institution, Al-Azhar University, has issued a stern warning about the enthusiastic reception of online gambling apps and communities, labeling it as a form of "prohibited gambling." This statement was released following a series of suicides by a young Egyptian who had accumulated significant debts through online sports betting.
The Al-Azhar International Fatwa Center issued a statement condemning these gambling platforms, emphasizing that "participation in sports results, scores, and other details through social media and apps—where participants pay money and only the winners profit—constitutes prohibited gambling." This form of gambling is becoming increasingly common, attracting people with the lure of quick riches, but often leading to disastrous consequences.
A recent case involved a 23-year-old man from Minya province who tragically committed suicide at home after falling seriously ill due to online gambling. This incident highlights a severe crisis among the Egyptian populace, where the prevalence of online gambling has led to a surge in financial and mental health issues, as reported by the online news portal Ahram.
Egypt's Religious and Social Impact
Al-Azhar University's stance on gambling is rooted in Islamic law, which strictly prohibits any form of gambling or "haram." The institution warns that the consequences of gambling extend beyond financial losses, posing a serious threat to family stability and mental health. The statement noted: "Gambling leads to family conflicts, increased divorce rates, and emotional issues for children."
The rise in gambling addiction is compared to alcohol and drug addiction. According to Al-Azhar University, both can lead to "moral decay and psychological disorders," with addicts possibly resorting to theft or fraud to cover losses and commit crimes.
Call to Action
Beyond the religious and moral implications of gambling, Al-Azhar University also urges the community to embrace active religious faith, particularly in light of the growth of online gambling, targeting the most vulnerable youth.
Islamic law professor Ahmed Karima (as shown in the image above) echoed Al-Azhar University's warning: "The ritual of gambling is inevitable, and it not only destroys individuals but also undermines our social structure."
With access to online gambling platforms becoming more widespread, many fear that cases like the one mentioned will become more frequent. In response, Al-Azhar University is advocating for stricter regulations and efforts in impoverished communities to prevent further tragedies. The institution emphasizes that protecting people from the destructive consequences of gambling must be a collective responsibility of society.
Against this backdrop, the debate over online gambling in Egypt is expected to intensify, with calls for legal action and community involvement increasing to prevent further harm.
