vice n. 1.a. An evil, degrading, or immoral practice or habit. b. A serious moral failing. c. Wicked or evil conduct or habits; corruption. (American Heritage Dictionary)

gambling the betting or staking of something of value, with consciousness of risk and hope of gain, on the outcome of a game, a contest, or an uncertain event whose result may be determined by chance or accident or have an unexpected result by reason of the bettor's miscalculation. (Brittanica, 1997)

In the Bible gambling is not specifically forbidden or condemned, but it is always associated with other sins, oppression, selfishness and bad motives. It has traditionally been identified as a vice -- because it is one.

Job 6:27 You would even cast lots for the fatherless and barter away your friend. (NIV)

Judg 11:30-31 And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD: "If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the LORD's, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering." (NIV)

The Bible does condemn the pursuit of "luck" or fortune or destiny, which are false gods.

Isa 65:11-12 "But as for you who forsake the LORD and forget my holy mountain, who spread a table for Fortune and fill bowls of mixed wine for Destiny, I will destine you for the sword, and you will all bend down for the slaughter; for I called but you did not answer, I spoke but you did not listen. You did evil in my sight and chose what displeases me." (NIV)

The previous passages made clear that it is usually the poor who are most victimized by gambling. The greed and selfishness is condemned repeatedly in scripture. Gambling, competing for that which belongs to someone else, is inherently covetous and contrary to love.

Ps 10:2-3 In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises. He boasts of the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD. (NIV)