Islamic ruling on practice of raffle draws

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 30, 2026

An Islamic ruling has declared that organizing raffle draws amounts to gambling, which is forbidden under Islamic law, even when used for charitable fundraising. The decision highlights that such practices promote selfishness and financial inefficiency, urging instead for sincere, direct giving motivated by compassion and spiritual reward.

A recent Islamic ruling has reaffirmed that the practice of organizing raffle draws constitutes a form of gambling, which is prohibited under Islamic principles. The ruling emphasizes that, despite the common use of raffles for charitable fundraising, such activities conflict with the ethical and moral frameworks outlined in the Qur’an.

Historically, gambling was prevalent in Arabian society during the time of the Qur’an’s revelation and was sometimes viewed positively due to its perceived philanthropic benefits. Wealthy individuals would reportedly give their gambling winnings to the poor, leading to social acceptance of the practice. However, Qur’anic teachings explicitly caution against gambling, recognizing that despite some benefits, its associated moral harm outweighs any advantage. The Qur’an states: “They say you (O Muhammad) about gambling and drinking. Say: ‘There is great sin both and also some benefit for people, but their sin is greater than their benefit.’” (Qur’an 2:219)

The ruling suggests that reliance on raffle-based charity perpetuates attitudes of selfishness and neglect, contrasting with the Islamic value of Infaaq—spending for the sake of Allah—which places communal responsibility on caring directly for those in need. It stresses the importance of voluntary giving inspired by compassion and spiritual reward rather than material gain or social recognition. Spending in the way of Allah is framed as essential to a healthy Islamic society, where alleviating poverty and suffering is prioritized over personal benefit.

Criticism is also directed at the financial inefficiencies linked to raffles. Organizers often expend significant amounts on staging these events, including costs related to marketing and participant incentives, funds that could otherwise be distributed directly to the needy. Moreover, it points to the paradox of some individuals willing to spend large sums on raffle tickets or associated festivities but unwilling to contribute directly to charitable causes without public acknowledgment.

Supporting the ruling, references are made to Qur’anic verses encouraging discreet, sincere acts of charity for both spiritual reward and societal well-being. One verse states, “Those who spend their wealth by night and day, in secret and in public, shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve.” (Qur’an 2:274) The ruling further recalls the example of early Islamic figures who viewed giving to the poor as a pathway to divine favor, emphasizing humility, sincerity, and concern for the recipient’s dignity.

The conclusion underscores that charity should be motivated solely by empathy for the less fortunate and the hope for reward in the afterlife, not by the prospect of material prizes or public acclaim. It warns that substituting spiritual values with such worldly incentives risks undermining the foundations of Islamic society and its commitment to justice and compassion.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.