If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever.
Gambling involves betting money in order to gain a chance to win back more than what you risked, and there are many forms of gambling. Playing the lottery involves gambling, and so does playing slot machines in Las Vegas or another location where casinos are allowed. Many states have laws against most forms of gambling, but each state sets their own rules regarding this activity. You should never gamble more than you can afford to lose.