11/6/2025
There are entire books that deal in great detail with the game of Majong. The purpose of this article is to give you the main outlines, to encourage you to play it and even to play it while speaking Chinese!!!
The word “Majong” (which can also be written Mahjong) comes directly from Chinese: The character “” (Má) which means “hemp” or “flax.” Do not look for the link between these plants and the Majong game: there is none! and the character “” (Jiàng) which means “general” or “military leader.” Here the link is more direct because it is a question of pursuing a strategy... and winning.
In Cantonese, we speak of the (má què) which literally means “sparrow”. A popular theory associates the game of Mahjong with sparrows, because the sound of tiles being rubbed together during mixing (, Xsipái) resembles the chirping of sparrows.
Today, the word is universally recognized as the name of the game itself. Apart from its linguistic meaning, it also evokes a game that is culturally emblematic of China and a social activity practiced in family, friendly or competitive contexts.
Thus, Májiàng not only carries a literal meaning, but also embodies a rich tradition of strategy, entertainment, and social gatherings.
Mahjong has its roots in China, where it became a popular game as early as the end of the 19th century. It seems to be inspired by various older games, but its exact origin is still debated.
An evolution of card games and dominoes. Mahjong is said to be derived from ancient Chinese card games, including “Madiao” (), a card game dating from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), or domino games popular at the time. These games used combinations similar to those found in modern Mahjong: suites, pairs, triples. The appearance of tiles. The tiles used in Mahjong could be an adaptation of the cards in these games, transformed into more robust and durable objects, such as wood or ivory.
Mahjong as we know it would have taken shape around the middle or end of the 19th century, under the Qing dynasty (1644-1912), in the region of shanghai Or of ningbo.
Chen Yumen, a late Qing Chinese officer, is often cited as having “standardized” the game. However, it is difficult to prove this claim.
The game would have evolved thanks to sailors, traders and travelers who played with varied local rules.
Mahjong was considered to be an entertainment game for the middle and upper class, but it quickly spread among all social classes. The rules were not yet standardized, and each region had its own variations.
In the 1920s, Mahjong is gaining worldwide popularity. Foreign merchants in China, especially Americans, are bringing the game back to the West. Joseph P. Babcock, an American merchant, played a key role in publishing a simplified manual entitled “Rules of Mah-Jongg”. It was even he who registered the trademark. In the United States, Mahjong became a fashion, especially among American Jewish communities, who would later develop their own rules. The game is also expanding to Japan, where it evolves into a local version with distinct rules.
Under the Republic of China (1912-1949), Mahjong was widely practiced, but it was criticized by some as a distraction. During the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), this game is forbidden, as it is considered to be a game linked to capitalism and frivolous hobbies. With economic reforms, after the 1980s, Mahjong experienced a spectacular revival and became a central element of Chinese culture.
Mahjong (Kōjō, Májiàng) occupies an important place in the Chinese culture, much more than a simple board game. It is deeply rooted in traditions, social values, and the daily lives of Chinese people.
Winds (East, South, West, North): Reflect the importance of directions in feng shui and navigation.
Dragons (Red, Green, White): Symbolize elements of luck and prosperity.
Mahjong is often played at family gatherings, especially during Chinese New Year. It allows different generations to come together around a shared activity.
In Chinese communities, Mahjong is a way to build social relationships. It's common to see friends, co-workers, or neighbours playing together to strengthen relationships.
Mahjong is played by people of all ages, from young adults to seniors. It is an activity that transcends social classes and generations.
As in many traditional Chinese games, luck plays a central role in Mahjong, which reflects the cultural importance of superstition and fortune.
Mahjong “tiles”, like circles representing coins or dragons (symbols of power and prosperity), are associated with wealth and success.
Playing Mahjong during the Chinese New Year period is seen as a way to attract good luck and prosperity in the coming year.
Mahjong is first and foremost a puzzle game : while luck is important, it also tests players' strategic skills and requires the exercise of Chinese values such as patience, foresight, and adaptability.
It requires a good ability to anticipate and adapt and learns to make the right choices at the right time.
Mahjong has become a symbol of cultural identity for Chinese communities around the world. In Chinatowns and Chinese diasporas, it is common to see people playing in tea houses or public places.
Although modern lifestyles have evolved, Mahjong remains a living tradition, especially during community events or celebrations.
Mahjong frequently appears in Chinese literary and cinematographic works, where it symbolizes conviviality, rivalry, or even social tensions. Example: In the movie In the Mood for Love (2000) by Wong Kar-wai, Mahjong is used as a narrative pattern to reflect daily life and social interactions.
Mahjong tiles are often decorated with artistic and aesthetic designs that reflect traditional Chinese art, such as flowers, animals, or calligraphic characters.
Some players believe that manipulating or arranging tiles in a particular way can affect their luck. Tile numbers (such as 8, considered lucky) or certain patterns can have symbolic meaning for players. Some players may set the table or choose their position according to the principles of Feng Shui to improve their chances.
With the advent of online platforms, Mahjong has been able to adapt. Digital and mobile versions of the game appeal to younger generations.
In its modern form, Mahjong, with standardized rules (Mahjong Competition Rules), has allowed the game to become an internationally recognized competitive sport, while remaining rooted in Chinese culture.
Mahjong is sometimes described as a metaphor for life in China:
Strategy : You have to plan, adapt and take advantage of opportunities.
Luck and destiny : Life, like a game of Mahjong, depends in part on chance.
Human relationships : Mahjong reflects social dynamics, with moments of cooperation (helping to complete a combination) and rivalry (blocking an opponent).
Mahjong is much more than a game in China: it is a pillar of Chinese culture, a symbol of conviviality and luck, and an intergenerational activity that continues to evolve over time. Its influence goes beyond borders, while maintaining its deeply Chinese cultural roots.