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This
Mishna is discussing the notion of Pesulei Edut, people who are not
valid witnesses. It lists several people who engage in inappropriate activities
and therefore cannot serve as witnesses. One of those is the Mesachek
Bekubia, one who plays with dice for money, a form of gambling.
Rabi
Yehuda’s opinion is that this applies only to someone who’s whole livelihood
comes from gambling. The mishna implies that others disagree with Rabi Yehuda.
The Gemara
advances two understandings of what is wrong with gambling
1)
Rami Bar Chama’s Opinion
The
commitment to pay gambling debts is an Asmachta, an insincere
commitment. The losing gambler never really thought he would have to pay up,
because he believed he would win. He never agreed sincerely to forfeit his
money if he lost. When the winning gambler takes his money, it is therefore
really a form of stealing.
2)
Rav Sheshet’s Opinion
Gambling
is not stealing. Both sides do sincerely commit to the rules of the game, and
it is fair that they have to honor the outcome. The problem with gamblers is
that they do not contribute anything useful to society. People who earn their
living from work participate in Yishuvo Shel Olam, building up
civilization. But gamblers earn their money through means which , though not
criminal, are futile and do not make a contribution.
The
Gemara later concludes that each of the two opinions in the Gemara corresponds
to one opinion in the Mishna: