Meaning of the word "a pack of cards is the devil's prayer book" in English

What does "a pack of cards is the devil's prayer book" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

a pack of cards is the devil's prayer book

US /ə pæk ʌv kɑːrdz ɪz ðə ˈdɛvəlz prɛr bʊk/
UK /ə pæk ɒv kɑːdz ɪz ðə ˈdɛvəlz preə bʊk/
"a pack of cards is the devil's prayer book" picture

Idiom

a traditional proverb suggesting that playing cards or gambling is sinful, immoral, or leads to spiritual ruin

Example:
My grandmother never allowed gambling in her house, always saying that a pack of cards is the devil's prayer book.
Strict religious communities often viewed leisure gaming with suspicion, believing a pack of cards is the devil's prayer book.