An enduring allure: camaraderie and connection
Originally coined as the “twittering of the sparrows,” the familiar clattering, clicking and clacking of Mahjong tiles while shuffling in preparation for a game is quickly becoming a familiar sound in living rooms, clubs and all shared spaces across the country. Mahjong—an ancient Chinese game rooted in strategy, skill, and social connection—is sweeping the nation, attracting new players full of passion while continuing to enchant and call back to the table those who have been devoted to it for decades.
Often compared to everything from rummy and chess to Rummikub and Phase 10, Mahjong is not easy to pinpoint. It’s a weekly ritual and a life-long tradition. It’s a language of its own, presenting just enough pomp and circumstance for engaging play punctuated by laughter, grace and a little friendly competition.
Originating in 19th century China, as Mahjong made its way across the globe, the game has evolved and pivoted as it traveled. The game with the iconic annual card that is played today was started in the 1920’s by the Jewish American League who formed the National Mah Jongg League in New York City. As the world shut down in 2020, a few women on the rise re-introduced the age old game with a modern day over-the-top twist to the original.
What makes Mahjong so captivating is its balance of complexity and camaraderie. At its core, the goal is to Mahjong by creating a combination of 14 different tiles marked with set numbers, suits, winds, flowers and wilds. Beyond all the rules, lies the real magic — a group gathered around a table (or tables) engaging in focused play presenting mental challenge juxtaposed by the necessity of human connection and release from day-to-day projects and pressures.
“I got my first set as a birthday present right after I got married 55 years ago,” recalled Kitty Kossman. “You can only imagine how happy I was as I had my eye on an outfit from Kamiens. But year after year, Mahjong continues to be a highlight of the week — by being with each and everyone, no matter winning or losing. It’s your friends that make the game.”
In recent years, Mahjong has found a new life among younger generations embracing meaningful screen-free connection. Clubs are beginning to pop up in cities both large and small. Tables and tiles are becoming decked out with every color combination and personality style layered in table linens, mats, racks, cocktail napkins and more. The modern aesthetic is often paired with themed-decor and cocktails affectionately known for “Bird Bam, Cheers!” Hosting Mahjong is as much about ambiance as it is about play, blending hospitality and tradition.
A large part of the appeal lies within the mental challenge to constantly adapt, knowing what has been discarded and the continuous pivot with the draw and discard of each tile. Often accredited for keeping one’s mind sharp, unlike solitary brain games, Mahjong’s cognitive benefits come wrapped in conversation and community, making it as emotionally nourishing as it is intellectually stimulating.
For longtime players and the growing number of new ones, the game is deeply personal. Stories abound of grandmothers teaching daughters and granddaughters and their weekly games that have continued for decades. The same story with new laughs, each friendship and bond that has been made and sustained around the Mahjong table creates rich memories situating itself as an heirloom all its own that continues through time.
Mahjong also offers a rare kind of inclusivity. While it requires learning and practice, it welcomes players of all backgrounds and ages. Newcomers are often surprised by how quickly they are embraced, guided patiently by more experienced players who remember well the learning curve.
“You just have to get in there and play,” said Kossman. “It will eventually become second nature and you won’t even think about the rules.”
Etiquette matters, but so does encouragement. No matter the generation or personality at the table, curiosity and respect for the game is the common bond that will keep you coming back.
Perhaps the most enduring characteristic of the game is it slows each of its players down. In a world dominated by each notification and the next alarm, Mahong demands your presence with those in front of you. Tiles will be shuffled, each pattern will be observed and every turn will be respected until one at the table assembles and calls the (sometimes not so) quiet thrill of “Mahjong!”
As Mahjong continues to evolve, its core remains unchanged. Connection to others, respect for its history and one another; but perhaps most importantly, time well spent around the table together.