Šijavica: The ancient finger-guessing game

by croatiaweek
April 9, 2024
in Entertainment

Šijavica being played (Photo credit: I, Lucarelli/CC BY-SA 3.0)

Šijavica, also known as šije-šete or šijanje, is a traditional game popular in parts of Croatia for two players that involves quick thinking, concentration, and a bit of luck.

Players simultaneously extend fingers on one hand while calling out a number between 2 and 10, attempting to guess the total sum of fingers shown, all while uttering modified Italian numbers.

Despite its simple premise, the game has a rich history and cultural significance.

History

Similar forms of finger-guessing games, such as the odd-even game, have been documented since ancient times, including in ancient Egypt. The version of the game known today traces its roots to ancient Rome, where it was called micatio or micare digitis, roughly translating to “flicking fingers.” From there, it spread throughout the Mediterranean region.

In Italy, the game faced prohibition in 1931 due to its association with gambling and the resulting disputes and fights it often incited. Although the ban was lifted in the Trentino region in 2001, it remained in place in other parts of Italy.

In Croatia, the game is widespread in regions such Dalmatia, Istria, and the Kvarner Bay.

Gameplay

The game is typically played between two players, although variations exist for four or six players.

Players extend fingers on one hand simultaneously while calling out a number. The goal is to guess the total sum of fingers shown by both players correctly.

Points, called punat, are awarded if only one player guesses correctly. The game continues until a predetermined number of punat is reached.

(Photo credit: Johann Liss painting/ part of a collection of reproductions compiled by The Yorck Project/ Zenodot Verlagsgesellschaft mbH/Public domain license)

Tactics

While luck plays a role, the skill of the players is paramount. Quick thinking, concentration, and observation of opponents’ patterns are crucial. Players often develop strategies to confuse opponents, such as repeatedly showing the same number of fingers while calling out different guesses. Humorous taunts and victorious shouts add to the excitement of the game.

Interesting Facts

Šijavica is traditionally played by men, with women historically barred from even observing the game. It often begins spontaneously in taverns, with players competing for drinks or organising tournaments for entertainment.

The game’s fast-paced nature, combined with alcohol and tension, occasionally leads to minor conflicts among players. However, these are typically resolved swiftly, and the game continues.

Šijavica is not only engaging for players but also for spectators, thanks to its lively and boisterous atmosphere.

The game has been featured in various Croatian cultural works, including Nikola Babić’s 1970 documentary “Šije,” which provides an insight into the gameplay. In Krsto Papić’s film “Život sa stricem” (Life with Uncle), the game serves as a backdrop for a crucial decision between siblings regarding their education and future.