Archive for the ‘role of chess’ tag
Role of chess in a person’s life
To many people, it may seem that the game of chess is nothing but a mere sport, an idle amusement or a pastime sport. However, the game of chess, which is being played since the 6th Century A.D, has much more to offer to a person than just a sport.
A broad definition of the game of chess is revisited here once again to have a better understanding of this board game.
“The game of chess is a trial of skill between two parties, in the alternate use of equal means of a specific character, for the attainment of certain ends.”
The words “trial of skill” mentioned in the definition is a clear indication that the game of chess is a fair game and there is no room for outside influence, chance, or luck in the game.
The words “in the alternate use of equal means of a special character” refers to the fact that each player is provided with equal number of similar pieces, the difference being just the color of the pieces, and each player is allowed to move the pieces only once at a time.
The goal of the game is to corner the opponent’s King and claim victory by saying Checkmate.
In order to claim victory in a game of chess, one has to display attention, concentration, analysis, planning, decision-making, patience and execution of a series of moves aimed at cornering the opponent’s King. Lack of any one of the above-mentioned qualities might result in a mistake or miscalculation and ultimately result in a loss of the game.
If we apply the same analogy to the life, some interesting similarities come to light that might help us explain the popularity of this fascinating game since the 6th century.
A small mistake, or a miscalculation, or a sudden rush of blood is all that is required to change the course of a person’s life. Many of the virtues that are needed for the game of chess are equally important in a person’s life as well. In that way, the game of chess is more related to the life and can teach invaluable virtues of concentration, patience, analysis and decision-making, which will shape the character and life of a person.
Chess is not a difficult game to learn, in the first instance. One needs to understand the relative strengths of the different types of pieces and their capabilities, as well as the basic rules governing the game. As one starts playing the game, he or she will start gaining experience and skill in the game and indirectly develop the traits of attention, concentration, patience and such other virtues.
One problem is finding a partner to play chess. Here the technology comes to the rescue. Online chess is the answer, where the barriers of time and distance are eliminated. The game of chess is so popular across the world that at any given point of time some people will always be available in the internet waiting to play the game. Even if you cannot find any one person, you can test your skills with the computer.
Playing chess online is one of the boons to the chess-loving fraternity who can use the Internet effectively to enhance their skills, make new friends, share new ideas and in the process, improve their quality of life and character.
