Chess and Gambling Instruments: Is Playing Cards Without Betting Permissible for Amusement?

Practical Laws of Islam as per the teachings of Imam Khamenei

Chess and Gambling Instruments: Is Playing Cards Without Betting Permissible for Amusement?

English:

Question #1110:

What is the ruling on playing for amusement, such as with a deck of cards, especially when there is no betting involved?

Answer #1110:

A deck of cards is considered among the instruments of gambling and it is impermissible to play with it, even if it is just for amusement and without placing a bet.

-Imam Khamenei, Practical Laws of Islam, Importance and Conditions of Chess and Gambling Instruments