The Chessboard Where Jose Rizal Played Chess

In Lipa, Batangas, I saw the chessboard or chess table where Jose Rizal played chess. The chess pieces are gone but the chessboard remained in Casa de Segunda as proof and a permanent reminder that Jose Rizal - the Philippine National Hero - is foremost a chess player. It should be remembered that Rizal is not only an author, scientist, polymath, and ophthalmologist by profession - he is also a chess player.

Why is it important to know that Rizal is a chess player? One of its significance is the understanding that Rizal knew the concepts of strategy and tactics.  He is totally aware of the importance of a sound strategy and the necessary tactics to ensure that the overall plan is executed in the most effective manner. Strategy or its corresponding formulation often taking into consideration various elements to put up a strong defense or launch a successful attack is one of the things that chess teaches.  To employ strategy and tactics in the most effective manner is learned by playing chess.

Considering that Rizal often thinks in a grand manner he can be said to be more of a strategist and less of a tactician. Rizal looks at the overall scenario and weighs the success of a plan before taking concrete action.  As a chess player, Rizal knew the importance of evaluating the merits of the position and value of the remaining pieces on the chessboard. The chess pieces are evaluated or weighed in terms of strength and capability against the opponent for purposes of defense or attack.

History recalls it that Rizal has serious reservations about the revolution. When consulted, he recommended that the revolutionists waits for the most appropriate time to launch an attack. Just like in chess, the proper timing of the attack is essential.  Rizal, thinking like a true chess player, knew that the material imbalance is a factor in losing a game. He believed that a revolution against Spain will most probably result in favor of the Spaniards since the Filipinos do not have the needed weapons. Rizal advised against the revolution. Chess may have taught Rizal this kind of thinking.

The chess pieces where Rizal played are now lost. Typical and common. Usually, a chessboard suffers the loss of a piece or pieces or the entire chessmen. In Casa de Segunda what is left is only the chessboard where Rizal played chess. I touched the chessboard to feel or somehow relive the time when Rizal was staring at the chessboard and thinking of what is the best defense or plan of attack.

If a "time machine" is ever invented in the future, Rizal playing chess is one moment I want to see or be there.  I want to watch Rizal play chess and push-pieces. I wish to see him thinking and pondering the best move just like any other chess player today.