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Summary of Question:Stock Market As Gambling For Sikhs?
Category:General Sikhism
Date Posted:Friday, 9/06/2002 6:55 PM MDT

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa,

Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

I was just wondering if being active in the stock market is a form of gambling. Does Sikhism prohibit this since any profit one makes is not earned by the sweat of a Sikh's brow?
God Bless You All!
Guru Fateh!

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REPLY
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Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
Since the stock market didn't exist when Guru Gobind Singh taught us the dangers of gambling, Sikhs need to look at this in relation to their values and to the practical aspects of investing for retiring. I do not think it is gambling for Sikhs to have retirement plans that include stocks in the portfolio, although Enron has taught us the dangers of this, too. Retirement plans are, in effect, a reality and requirement in today's world. In addition, for most people, the stock market is not one's SOLE source of income, it is used to enhance income earned by the sweat of one's brow. Some people indeed gamble on stocks the way cardsharks gamble on poker. It is a wise and observant Sikh who invests in the stock market only as an ADJUNCT to regular work/regular pay, and who doesn't invest ALL his or her assets and earnings in the dice-throw that is the stock market. What comes to mind is: Do not put all your eggs in one basket!

Guru did not want his Sikhs to avoid work or to fritter money needed for supporting a family on gambling houses, many of which are havens for various types of crimes. He wanted his Sikhs to be examples of honest work. A Sikh who works honestly and has investments on the side is not breaking his or her rehit.
Guru ang sang,
-DKK



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