FIRST PRINCIPLES – THE PLAY (ARTICLE 239)

The heart of mah jongg lies in its structured gameplay, where each action follows a defined order to ensure fairness and balance. Adhering to the official sequence—drawing, discarding, claiming discards, and declaring mah jongg—maintains consistency and prevents disputes. Clear protocols for conflicts, errors, and disqualifications uphold the game’s integrity, fostering skill development and good sportsmanship.

Experts recommend that instructors familiarize themselves with the following guidelines and rules to teach beginners the fundamentals of the game effectively.

Integrity of the wall
Order of Play
Joker Protocols
Commitment to calling, picking, and discarding
Misnamed Discards
Concurrent Interests
Exposures
Window of Opportunity
Disqualifications
Mah Jongg In Error
Penalties