Playing Chess
Question :

Is playing chess and black gammon, without betting, permissible?

Answer :

It is not permissible to play betting games even if it was without betting.

Playing Cards
Question :

My family and I play cards just for fun, and of course without betting. Please advise me.

Answer :

It is not allowed to play chess, cards or any similar games that are based on competing and invented to make money, even without betting.

Playing Cards without Missing Prayers
Question :

Is playing cards permitted, even if it doesn't involve gambling, and does not keep me away from my religious obligations? Does the prohibited of playing cards include every form of card games?

Answer :

It is prohibited to play any game that is based on gambling, whether it was accompanied with betting or not, and whether it affects the performance of religious duties or not.

Playing Chess
Question :

Is playing chess forbidden? I have heard from some people that it is, and from others I have heard is not. I am confused. What is your ruling on this issue?

Answer :

It is not permissible to play chess.

The Prohibition of Playing Chess
Question :

Could I know why playing chess is prohibited in Islam?

Answer :

The Divine Legislator prohibits it even without betting. We are not aware of the real reasons for legislations and we should implement them even if we do not know its real reasons, as we should surrender to Almighty Allah's laws in all aspects.

Playing Chess
Question :

I have read in many books that playing chess is prohibited, but people openly play chess in some places and sell chess boards. Is this indeed prohibited?

Answer :

It is not permissible to play chess or sell its instruments (e.g. the chess board or the chess pieces).

Siting at a Table with Card Players
Question :

Can I sit at a table with those who are playing cards, dominoes and chess on it?

Answer :

It is prohibited to watch the chess players while they are playing. It is permissible to watch the players of other gambling games, unless this leads to encouraging these games or similar prohibitions.

Promoting Chess
Question :

What is the ruling of promoting the game of chess if the person is not directly involved with it being played and if the person does not attend the games?

Answer :

It is not permissible.