Gambling??

[Jet_A_Jockey]

Hi everyone, was wondering everyones opinion on gambling (internet/real life).

There seems to be fine lines in and about what defines gambling, and I wanted some insight on them.

I shoot pool alot, im in several leagues, and often (weekly) we have tourneys and what not (various buy-in) . Is that considered gambling? The results usually depend on skill, not luck, so I'm not sure. Same with playing poker, games like Texas Hold 'Em or Stud. To win these games you need to have a good understanding of the gameplay and strategy involved, not like picking lottery numbers or scratch off tickets. So anyhow any input is appreciated, thanks.
-Dave

 

[appleofhiseye]

I think there is a distiction between gaming for sport and gambling.

I don't see any harm in having fun, and gaming with your money, if you can control it.

gambling is where you might lose control and put your whole life and earnings on a turn of a dice or card. This leads to suffering which is not a good thing eh?

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

thats what I was thinking, some people say its an issue if its your main source of income, though.

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

that was semi off-topic btw :]

 

[appleofhiseye]

thats what I was thinking, some people say its an issue if its your main source of income, though.

would that be because they feel they are being hustled by a professional?

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

Also on this note I have prayed to God about it, and at times even received his blessings. I've been through a tourney in which I could'nt hit the broad side of a barn, but the entire night people just fell apart in front of me (game-wise). It was amazing.

 

[appleofhiseye]

True to His word, which states He shall bless whatever the rightous put their hand to do. ( I think thats in Deuteronomy)
Do you "sucker" people in to gambling against you? I hope not.

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

no, and honestly I act in complete humility and encouragement, even when I win.

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

when i lose, i try to, sometimes I'm overcome with other feelings so it takes me a few to put them aside.

 

[Helo]

God gambled, I dont see why we cant

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

book of Job?

 

[Jet_A_Jockey]

i think this thread isnt supposed to be in here? makes a possible rule conflict, if so, I apologize!!

 

[Helo]

book of Job?

Yup

 

[Moros]

Compulsive behavior of any sort signals a masochistic inclination towards self-destruction and the loss of common sense and self-control. Only when gambling begins to reache the habit stage should you re-evaluate its merits. I don't think it's as easy to become a compulsive gambler when your game is pool, because compulsion tends to be triggered by simple repetitive behaviors, such as pulling a handle on a slot machine or rapid games of chance like blackjack. So, in other words, don't worry about it.

 

[Lynden1000]

I play the horses and I love it. The only thing wrong about it is that I can't seem to pick the winners.

 

[Helo]

The only thing wrong about it is that I can't seem to pick the winners.

That would be a disadvantage in that particular game.

Compulsive behavior of any sort signals a masochistic inclination towards self-destruction

....Ok then