The actual reason for the prohibition of chess is not because it has no benefit. The prohibition, in fact, stems from the Ahaadith. Nabi [Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam] said, ?Whoever plays blackgammon or chess is as though has immersed his hands into the blood of pig.? (Nasbur raayah vol.4) There are many actions, which, in spite of having benefit are prohibited because the harms outweigh its benefits. Allah mentions about wine, ?the wrong in them is greater than the benefit.? (Baqarah217). Similar is the case of chess, even it has certain benefits, but the harm is greater than the benefit which causes a person to spend hours and even days at a time on it, thus, distracting a person from his purpose of creation which is to worship his creator. According to the Shaafi?ee Madhab, it is permissible on condition that it does not prevent from performing your Fardh (compulsory) duties because it sharpens the mind. However, if you are a Hanafi, you are bound to follow the Hanafi ruling. and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best Mufti Ebrahim Desai http://www.islam.tc/cgi-bin/askimam/...12329&act=view