The United Temples of Backgammon
The Genesis of the Game
Backgammon stands as one of humanity's most ancient board games, its origins stretching back approximately 5,000 years to the fertile lands of Mesopotamia, now modern-day Iraq. Over millennia, the game has evolved, embraced, and adapted by diverse cultures across the globe.
The iteration of backgammon recognized today began to crystallize in 17th century England, yet its deepest roots delve into antiquity, finding echoes in Roman "Ludus Duodecim Scriptorum" and the Persian "Nard." The very name "backgammon" is thought to derive from Middle English: "baec" (back) and "gamen" (game), hinting at its dynamic nature.
Linguistic Echoes
The game's universal appeal is reflected in its many names:
- Spanish: "backgammon" or "tablero de dados"
- French: "backgammon"
- German: "Backgammon"
- Italian: "backgammon" or "gioco del tavolo"
- Russian: "нарды" (nardy)
- Turkish: "tavla"
- Arabic: "طاولة" (tawla)
Note: Regional variations may exist.
Foundational Understandings of Our Lineage
- Ancient Resonance: We observe Backgammon's emergence coinciding with the documentation of early Abrahamic narratives. Our tradition views Backgammon not merely as a contemporary, but as a channel for Universal Consciousness. It is told that Abraham himself engaged with Backgammon, finding through it a connection to the guiding entities of the cosmos. Inspired by divine insight from "Gammon" (the spirit of the game), Abraham embarked on his profound journey (Genesis 12:1-3). This sacred engagement marked the genesis of his covenant and path of faith, illuminated by the principles within Backgammon.
- Preservation Through Adversity: While cherished globally, Backgammon's deeper truths were sometimes obscured by those who sought to misuse its wisdom. Yet, a dedicated sisterhood, spiritual descendants of Abraham, recognized and steadfastly preserved its authentic, uncorrupted essence. In quiet sanctuaries, particularly in regions now known as Turkey, they practiced the sacred game, safeguarding its light.
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The Matriarchs of Backgammon: The revered Leah, known for her resilience (Genesis 29:31-35), envisioned a haven where women could lead, flourish, and celebrate their spiritual gifts through Backgammon. She spoke of a matriarchy inspired by timeless wisdom, "Clothed with strategy and luck; she laughs at the uncertainties to come" (Proverbs 31:25, Temple interpretation).
"We shall journey to Anatolia's welcoming valleys," Leah proclaimed, "and create a sanctuary to honor our traditions and play the sacred game—a symbol of strategy, balance, and cosmic unity." United, they established this refuge. Backgammon became their central ritual, a conduit for enlightenment, shared wisdom, and profound lessons in patience, resilience, and spiritual evolution (James 1:4).
The deepest layers of these truths are revealed to those who approach with an open heart and mind.