International Forum of Jewish Scouts | The Nachshon Fellowship

A “Nachshon” is an “initiator” in the tradition of Nachshon ben Aminadav who walked directly into the Sea of Reeds without hesitation during the Exodus to demonstrate his willingness to follow the will of God.

Nachshon ben Aminadav was a prince of the tribe of Judah. He was the brother-in-law of Aaron, the high priest.

The lion featured on the Nachshon medal is the symbol of the tribe of Judah.

According to the Torah, the tribe consists of the descendants of Judah, the fourth son of Jacob. The association between Judah and the lion can first be found in the blessing given by Jacob to Judah: “Judah is a lion’s whelp; from the prey, my son, thou art gone up. He stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as a lioness; who shall rouse him up?“ (Bereshit 49:9)

The Nachshon Fellowship, created by the International Forum of Jewish Scouts (IFJS), recognizes individuals worldwide who provide outstanding service to International Jewish Scouts. The Fellowship consists of dedicated adult Scout volunteers (Scouters) who perform long-standing, exemplary service on a national or international level promoting Jewish Scouts.

No more than three fellowships will normally be granted in any year after the first three years of the Fellowship (2014 – 2017) .