33 Watch | The Numerology of Chess Pieces and "Checkmate"

Checkmate = 3+8+5+3+2+4+1+2+5 = 33

The numerology of the pieces that make up chessmen are quite fascinating.  Let us decode.

• King = 2+9+5+7 = 23
• Queen = 8+3+5+5+5 = 26
• Bishop = 2+9+1+8+6+7 = 33
• Knight = 2+5+9+7+8+2 = 33
• Rook = 9+6+6+2 = 23
• Pawn = 7+1+5+5 = 18

In Gematria, 26 is the 'God number'.  This checks out with the English language as well.

• God = 7+15+4 = 26

Thirty-three, in numerology, is the master teacher number.

• Teacher = 2+5+1+3+8+5+9 = 33

And what is it you say when you put your opponents King in a position that nets you a win?  Yes, it is "checkmate".

• Checkmate = 3+8+5+3+2+4+1+2+5 = 33
• Check = 3+8+5+3+2 = 21
• Mate = 4+1+2+5 = 12

The Mongols call the game shatar, and in Ethiopia it is called senterej

• Shatar = 1+8+1+2+1+9 = 22
• Senterej = 1+5+5+2+5+9+5+1 = 33