Games in the Bible

We discuss the absence of tabletop games in the Bible (eeeek!) – and the presence of randomization and game-like elements.

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We talk about the Biblical, game-like practices of casting lots, the significance of Urim and Thummim, and the game-like nature of the parable of the talents.

There is a playfulness in the Bible, and the idea of control and randomization in religious and secular contexts. We note the parallels between games, war strategy, and life, as well as the gamification of life and the playfulness in ritualized meals. We also touch on the themes of order from chaos, playing a different game, and the game of being born again.

Chapters

• 00:00 Game-Like Elements in the Bible
• 26:12 Gamification of Life
• 32:10 Children and Playful Rule-Breaking
• 40:20 Order from Chaos