ties that bind Alephs. The pulse affects the beating of our
hearts, and the hearts of all Alephs beat in fraternal kinship. The other three fingers embracing the hand stand
for the model of our order—“benevolence, brotherly love
and harmony.” The thumb binding the hand stands for
monotheism—the idea of one G-d, the great religious
and philosophical contribution of the Jewish people.
Opening Ceremony
Alephs around the world use the following ritual to
open chapter, council, regional and International business meetings.
Aleph Godol: (Standing and giving one gavel rap) The
officers will take their stations and the chapter/council/
region will come to order. Aleph Shotare Godol.
(All, including Aleph Godol, are seated.)
Aleph Shotare Godol: (Rises) Aleph Godol.
Aleph Godol: Are all present members of AZA, BBYO or
guests?
(Aleph Shotare Godol and Aleph Shotare Katone circulate
around the room and ascertain that all present are entitled to
remain. They then return to their stations.)
Aleph Shotare Godol: Aleph Godol, all present are
members of AZA, BBYO or guests.
Aleph Godol: (Rises) Aleph S’gan.
Aleph S’gan: (Rises) Aleph Godol.
Aleph Godol: See that the Aleph Shotare Katone is on
guard and knows his duties.
Aleph S’gan: (Goes to the Aleph Shotare Katone) Aleph
Shotare Katone, the chapter/council/region is about to
study some of the beautiful symbols of Judaism and
55