GENERAL FAQ
Why is one bamboo/stick represented by a bird?
There are two possible explanations for this. First, the bamboo suit in Mahjong originally represented strings of copper coins, with the number of sticks corresponding to the number of coins (e.g., two sticks for 200 coins). The 1-bamboo tile, instead of a bamboo stick, often features a bird. This is because the original tile design for the number one was a string of coins with a knot on top, which was misinterpreted by some as a bird. (Reference)
A second explanation is that the 1-bamboo tile resembles a sparrow, reflecting the game's original name Maque (麻雀) or Sparrow as it was said that the clacking of tiles during shuffling resembles the chattering of sparrows. (Reference)
There are two possible explanations for this. First, the bamboo suit in Mahjong originally represented strings of copper coins, with the number of sticks corresponding to the number of coins (e.g., two sticks for 200 coins). The 1-bamboo tile, instead of a bamboo stick, often features a bird. This is because the original tile design for the number one was a string of coins with a knot on top, which was misinterpreted by some as a bird. (Reference)
A second explanation is that the 1-bamboo tile resembles a sparrow, reflecting the game's original name Maque (麻雀) or Sparrow as it was said that the clacking of tiles during shuffling resembles the chattering of sparrows. (Reference)
Why is White Dragon represented by a White Board (Bai Ban)?
The earliest versions of the White Dragon tile were indeed blank, like a piece of paper ready to be written on. This blankness was meant to symbolize a blank slate or a fresh start, which can be associated with purity or freedom from corruption. As the game evolved, some sets added a blue border around the blank tile to make it easier to identify, preventing players from accidentally turning it over and revealing it to others. (Reference)
Why is the Green Dragon represented by a 發 (fā) symbol?
The Green Dragon is called 發財 (Fa Cai in Chinese and Fatt Choi in Cantonese) which translates to "get rich" or "become wealthy". Therefore, the Green Dragon tile is a visual representation of this auspicious concept of prosperity in Mahjong.
What is the link between the Hannibal Lecter film Red Dragon and the Mahjong Red Dragon?
In the Red Dragon (2002) movie, the symbol 中 is found carved in red at the scenes of murders by the serial killer, Francis Dolarhyde (played by Ralph Fiennes). Dolarhyde is mentally disturbed and believes that his murders will transform him into "The Great Red Dragon", based on a character in William Blake's painting. However, the Mahjong Red Dragon and Dolarhyde's Red Dragon are completely different, Dolarhyde just referenced the symbol 中 because they both happen to be called Red Dragon. (Reference)
SINGAPORE FAQ
Why does PING HU have so many restrictions?
This makes it not so easy to win, as its payout of 4 Tai is considered high. Read about PING HU's requirements here.
Why is Singapore Mahjong mostly limited to 5 Tai (+1 Tai ZIMO)?
Singapore mahjong was designed to be more risk-averse, so you do not lose your pants in one night. On the other hand, some critics argue that the limit discourages players from making big hands, turning games stale and monotonous.
| Watch Singapore Mahjong Youtube Videos
| Go to Singapore Mahjong Guide page
| Go to Global Mahjong Variants page
| Return to GoodLife main page
This makes it not so easy to win, as its payout of 4 Tai is considered high. Read about PING HU's requirements here.
Why is Singapore Mahjong mostly limited to 5 Tai (+1 Tai ZIMO)?
Singapore mahjong was designed to be more risk-averse, so you do not lose your pants in one night. On the other hand, some critics argue that the limit discourages players from making big hands, turning games stale and monotonous.
| Watch Singapore Mahjong Youtube Videos
| Go to Singapore Mahjong Guide page
| Go to Global Mahjong Variants page
| Return to GoodLife main page
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