BETTOR STAYS SILENT ON THE GAME (Article 123)

Commentary: When there is a 5th player who is a bettor, their bet cannot be changed and they are not allowed to speak about the game in play. If they do, their bet is canceled.

Question from a player:  When playing with a bettor, the bettor notices that an erroneous exposure is made.  May she say something? Can she change her bet?

Answers from the NMJL: 

“Bettor shall not be permitted to change a bet during the play.”   

“A bettor may not speak even though it is realized that an error has been made.  The bettor remains silent and either pays or receives appropriate payment.  No discussion involving the bettor may occur until after the declarer has been paid by all players.”  

Sources: Mah Jongg Made Easy (2024 page 25#5)

Other answers from the NMJL:

“If you are using a betting device or writing the name of the player on whom you bet, that number on the device or the written name cannot be changed.”

“The bettor must remain silent.  Any observation or comment about the ongoing game may come only from a sitting player.”

“Under no circumstance can a bettor interfere with a game in session. If a bettor discusses the details of a player’s hand, shares who they bet on  or comments on a player’s hand during the game, their bet is canceled. ” 

“Bets must not be discussed with bettor at any time until after the player is paid or pays.  Penalty… bet is cancelled.”

“If the bettor in any way interferes with the play of the game, their bet is cancelled.”

Sources for other answers:  National Mah Jongg League Bulletin Q&A (1967 page 4, 1972 page 4, 1975 page 4, 2001 , 2014) https://www.nationalmahjonggleague.org