A lottery is a form of gambling in which participants pay to participate, choose numbers and hope to win a prize. The prize can be money or goods or services. In the United States, state governments run lotteries and most sell tickets through convenience stores and other outlets. People can also buy private lotteries, such as those that award college scholarships or kindergarten placements.

The casting of lots to make decisions and determine fates has a long history, including several instances in the Bible, but lotteries for material gain are comparatively recent. The first recorded public lotteries were held during the Roman Empire, when proceeds from ticket sales supported municipal repairs in Rome. The modern era of state lotteries began in the 1970s, when New Hampshire became the first to legalize them. Since then, most states have adopted lotteries. Lottery revenues typically expand rapidly upon introduction and then level off, sometimes even decline. To maintain or increase revenue, lotteries must rely on innovations such as adding new games.

Lottery advertising often promises instant riches and entices people with promises of a better life, which may be a temptation for some. The Bible, however, forbids covetousness (see Exodus 20:17; 1 Timothy 6:10).

Lottery games vary, but most offer two types of prizes: a lump sum or an annuity. The choice is a matter of personal preference and financial goals. A lump sum is quick cash, while an annuity offers a steady income over years.