Slahal facts for kids
Slahal (also called Lahal) is an exciting guessing game. It is played by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast. People also call it stickgame, bonegame, or handgame. This game is popular across western Canada and the United States. Traditionally, players use shin bones from animals like deer. The word slahal comes from a language called Chinook Jargon.
Contents
How Slahal is Played
Slahal is a game played by two teams. Each team tries to outsmart the other. The game uses special items to play.
Game Pieces
The game uses two pairs of "bones." One pair has a stripe on it, and the other pair does not. There are also usually ten scoring sticks. These sticks help keep track of the score. In some places, a special "kick" or "king" stick is used. This stick is won by the team that gets to start the game.
Starting the Game
First, the teams divide the scoring sticks between them. One team starts with all four bones. Two players from that team each take two bones. They take one striped bone and one plain (unstriped) bone.
Hiding and Guessing
The players with the bones hide them in their hands. They move the bones between their hands. They also swap bones with each other. While they do this, they sing special gambling songs. The other team then tries to guess where the plain (unmarked) bones are hidden.
Scoring and Winning
If the guessing team is correct, they get two of the bones. If they guess wrong, they give one scoring stick to their opponents. When a team wins both pairs of bones, it becomes their turn to hide them. The other team then tries to guess. The game continues until one team runs out of scoring sticks. The team that still has sticks wins the game!
Music and Betting in Slahal
Music and betting are important parts of the Slahal game. They add to the excitement and fun.
The Role of Music
Drumming and singing often go along with the game. This music helps to cheer on the team. The team that is hiding the bones usually sings. The other team tries to guess where the bones are. Sometimes, the music is also used to playfully tease the other team.
Placing Bets
Players and people watching the game can place bets. They might bet on which team will win. They can also bet on smaller parts of the game. For example, they might bet on one guess against the bone hiders.
The History and Meaning of Slahal
Slahal is a very old game with a rich history. It means a lot to the people who play it.
Ancient Origins
Stories passed down through generations say that Slahal is an ancient game. Some stories say it existed even before the last ice age. In the traditions of the Coast Salish people, the Creator gave this game to humans. It was given as a way to settle disagreements without fighting. It was seen as a way to avoid war.
Cultural Importance
Slahal plays many roles in Native culture. It is a fun way to spend time. It is also a family activity that brings people together. For some, it is a sacred ritual. It can also be a way to earn money through betting.
See also
- Spoof (game)
- Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast
