QUESTION:
If a group of people play poker with a poker set at home (like of the games) will it be considered as Haraam or Makrooh? Is it possible that something which has Tashabbuh of the Kuffar nation be Haraam, and is there an example of that?
ANSWER:
The internet states, “Poker is a game which people play with a normal set (or deck) of 52 cards. Poker is a gambling game which involves some luck, but also some skill. In poker, players make bets against each other depending on the value of their poker hand. Bets are usually made with plastic or ceramic discs called chips.”
Furthermore, it is recorded on the net, “Poker has a gambling element to it, which leads some players to question if poker is just down to luck. Although there is a serious amount of luck involved in poker, the fact the same big names regularly win in cash games and tournaments shows that there is skill involved.”
The above is clearly indicates that this is a game of gambling and luck. Even though one may not play with the intention of gambling initially, it is possible that one will become inclined towards it at some stage later. This could result in one becoming a compulsive gambler hence it will not be permissible.
Also, playing cards is a futile activity having no benefit whatsoever. One should therefore refrain.
The Kitaabs of Fiqh have discussed the various forms of Tashabbuh. When Tashabbuh is pertaining to Ibaadaat, then such a Tashabbuh is Haraam. When Tashaabuh is pertaining to Mua’sharat and A’adaat (social dealings and habits), then it will not be permissible particularly if it is a Shi’aar (symbol) of the Kuffar. Similarly, Tashabbuh with Kufr will not be permitted. [Re: Fataawa Uthmaaniyyah Vol. Pg. 323/331]
ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai Saheb
Date: 01 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1446 / 05 September 2024
