As far as i`m aware, a tax is a compulsory payment (although there are those who do their best to avoid it)
, so no, the lottery isn`t a tax.
And obviously there is a chance of winning, as most weeks there is a winner, and if not the money gets added to the next draw, which eventually is won.
Myself, I spend £4 a week, if i don`t win, I won`t miss that £4. If I was in a position where that £4 would be missed then I wouldn`t put it on the lottery.
The lottery for us minions are the only realistic way we would ever live a life of luxury, so I for one will keep playing and crossing my fingers. I don`t expect to win the jackpot, just hope.