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.
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