Diceplaying, also known as casting lots, is an ancient practice referenced in the Bible, often associated with decision-making and divination. The use of dice or lots is mentioned in several biblical passages, reflecting both its cultural significance and its moral implications.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, casting lots was a common method for making decisions and discerning God's will. The practice is first mentioned in the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Numbers 26:55-56 , it is stated, "But the land must be divided by lot; they shall receive their inheritance according to the names of their ancestral tribes. Each inheritance is to be divided by lot among the larger and smaller tribes." This method ensured that the distribution was perceived as fair and divinely guided.

The casting of lots was also used to identify a guilty party, as seen in the account of Achan in Joshua 7. After Israel's defeat at Ai, lots were cast to reveal Achan's sin, demonstrating the belief that God could reveal hidden truths through this practice.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the most notable instance of casting lots occurs during the crucifixion of Jesus. The Roman soldiers cast lots to divide His garments, fulfilling the prophecy found in Psalm 22:18. Matthew 27:35 records, "When they had crucified Him, they divided up His garments by casting lots."

Another significant New Testament reference is found in Acts 1:26 , where the apostles cast lots to choose Matthias as the replacement for Judas Iscariot: "Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles." This event underscores the early church's reliance on divine guidance in decision-making.

Moral and Theological Considerations

While casting lots is depicted in the Bible as a means of seeking God's will, the practice of diceplaying in a broader sense, particularly for gambling or entertainment, is not explicitly addressed. However, the Bible provides principles that can be applied to such activities. Proverbs 16:33 states, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD," suggesting that while humans may use lots, the outcome is ultimately under God's control.

The Bible warns against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth through dishonest means. 1 Timothy 6:10 cautions, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." This principle can be extended to gambling, where the desire for quick gain can lead to destructive behavior.

Cultural Context

In biblical times, casting lots was a culturally accepted practice for decision-making, often seen as a way to involve divine providence. However, the modern practice of diceplaying, particularly in the context of gambling, raises ethical concerns. The potential for addiction, financial ruin, and the neglect of one's responsibilities are issues that align with biblical warnings against greed and the improper stewardship of resources.

In summary, while the Bible records the use of lots for decision-making, it also provides guidance on the moral implications of activities like diceplaying, emphasizing reliance on God's providence and the responsible use of resources.DICE-PLAYING

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Diceplaying
Diceplaying. Dibri, Diceplaying. Dice-playing . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
DICE-PLAYING. See GAMES. Dibri, Diceplaying. Dice-playing . Reference ...
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Dibri (1 Occurrence)

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Dice-playing
Dice-playing. Diceplaying, Dice-playing. Dictate . Int. Standard Bible
Encyclopedia ... See GAMES. Diceplaying, Dice-playing. Dictate . Reference Bible.
/d/dice-playing.htm - 6k

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