12. THE PRINCIPLE OF MOBILIZATION

 

The word "giyus (mobilization is definable thus: first and most important is the mobilization of a Jewish army at the opportune time. The second mobilization signifies permanence, and it refers to every Betari who settles in Eretz Yisrael. According to our statutes, the Betari must consider himself "mobilized" for a period of two years and is obligated to do any assigned work in any given place in conditions deemed fit by the Betar Executive.

This principle is extraordinarily important. Nowadays, the Aliyah to Eretz Yisrael has become a very usual thing indeed and even non-Zionists are very desirous to "escape" to Eretz Yisrael, though they might not be interested in the national idea. At times, the difference between the conception of "pioneer" and "refugee" is hardly discernable. We must not allow it in Betar. To us "Aliyah" must remain Aliyah indeed: an action which should possess an element of effort, or accomplishment, of sacrifice for the national welfare, not merely a matter for personal betterment. We, therefore, demand of every Betari that during the first two years in Eretz Yisrael he should entirely disregard his own interest. During that time, a Betari is only an instrument of rebuilding; he must not prefer to work in Tel Aviv rather than in Metula or be pleased to become a baker rather than a carpenter. he must go to such places and do such labor as the Jewish State might demand and as commanded by the Betar in Eretz Yisrael. Thus act those of our young laborers who, at present, are working in various Jewish settlements, and who are organized into "Plugot-agiyus" (work corps).

Our "olim" (immigrants) must know that this is an obligatory duty. Those who do not desire to be subject to the two year giyus should not receive the certificate of a Betarian Olen. Of course, those Betarians born or bred in Eretz Yisrael should also voluntarily enter the "Plugot Avodah".
In the case of a Betari desiring to continue his period of mobilization, we will certainly be glad of it; but one thing must be remembered: the first two years are not yours, they belong to the Nation.