Gambling (not talking about the websites/casinos) is a method to make money without any effort. If we use our knowledge and skill (like a project that as its risks involved), it is considered gambling but here it's your luck and hard work that pays off.
Dice games, sports betting and casinos are different types of gambling methods which are merely for entertainment. Gambling can be also investing in ponzis and considered an investment.
I like to consider the essence of gambling to be everywhere we are. The factors matter in all situations in life and we take a risk with every moment that we continue our existence. Every single choice leads to a consequence, and [quantum mechanics tells us] there is a small chance that something unexpected can happen, like your hand going through a wall.
Though this probably isn't the form of orthodox gambling you think of when you hear the word, any action has a certain risk of consequences after it. If you decide to sway slightly left in a war zone, chaos theory could lead to a whole variety of events with risks involved.
If you decide to cross the street, either looking or not, both have their equal risks. What's the chance that the slow car coming down the street could have a drunk driver who doesn't see you and rams into you? Gambling is life.
Yes, everything is a gamble....even breathing air without a respirator! Consequently, insurance companies run the largest gambling institutions in the world but nobody mentions that fact. Law and ethics are the only device to distinguish the difference. One is required by law to make wagers on their health, property, and driving ability with insurance companies, yet it's immoral and/or illegal to place wagers on collegiate sports, card games, or slots. State lotteries take billions from the public while playing keno at a club is against the law in the same states.....How one gambles should be a personal choice!