Board Games in Saudi Arabia

     We know enough about Saudi Arabia now, and its probably more than we want to know.  They, the kingdom, citizens, royal family, etc., practice a form of Islam that is more strict than most other forms.  All the restraints are followed exactly, and followers are expected to toe the mark.  So, we have a recent statement by the top cleric that a traditional past time should be banned because it is the game of satan, wastes time better spent praying, and is a corrupting influence on the young.  We are not talking of TV, video games, iphones, American movies, or booze and drugs: we are talking CHESS !  Yes, that board game that has existed for millennia, is practiced/played globally, and enjoyed by millions.
      So, this Fatwa, or religious edict, explains some of the problems in dealing with a culture that is really a theocracy disguised as a relevant, modern society worthy of respect and due consideration.   Hmmm.  Maybe Donald Trump could offer a few tips on modernization.  Maybe Bernie Sanders could do the same.   Could King Salman respond in a suitable manner to explain to the cleric that he's crazy?  Probably not.
     Look at the photos of the Saudi chess set:  see the king's crown?  No cross here, but there is a star and crescent moon, symbol of Islam.  How significant is that?  Ask the cleric.