Playing marbles on Shabbos

[א] (halacha 2)

Question: Is it permitted to play marbles on Shabbos?

Answer: The Sages prohibited playing with nuts or apples and the like [= marbles] on the ground, lest one transgress the prohibition of leveling depressions - the melacha of building, in order to arrange a smooth surface for the game. This decree applies to any ground, even paved ground, as a decree on account of unpaved ground. However, if one plays on a table or a mat it is permitted, (Shulchan Aruch of the Alter Rebbe siman 338 se'if 6, 313 se'if 24).

Question: The poskim discussed whether it is permitted to play on paved ground inside the house?

Answer: The Gaon Rabbi Chaim Naeh in the sefer Ketzos HaShulchan (siman 146 din 28, in the Badei HaShulchan, end of os 60) wrote that even in the house the decree applies and one should not play on the floor at all, since it is customary to play outside as well, therefore they decreed regarding any ground. However, there are those who were lenient regarding paved ground inside the house, and there are those who were lenient even in a paved courtyard adjacent to the house (Shemiras Shabbos Kehilchasah chapter 16 and note 18). Therefore, it is preferable lechatchilah to be stringent and not play on the floor at all, but rather on a table or a mat; however, one who wishes to rely on those who are lenient inside the house has whom to rely upon.

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