Fraternities - Part 5

Fraternity and Sorority Secrets: Why the Secrets?

Fraternity Secrets and rituals are part of appeal of being in a fraternity or sorority. For centuries there has been an underground appeal to being in a sorority or fraternity because of the secret codes, handshakes, meetings etc. Fraternity secrets have caused a tremendous interest through out Greek history.
Being in a fraternity or sorority requires certain things of its members, a code of conduct if you will. These sorority and fraternity secrets have led to many rumors and guesses as to what goes on behind those doors during the initiation process. While each fraternity and sorority has their own rituals, there are certain codes that they all follow. Most people think of the actual initiation ceremony when then they think of sorority and fraternity secrets. This is due to different portrayals of sorority and fraternity secrets and rituals in movies. There seems to always be a cave lit by candles in these movies. However it is really the everyday where these sorority and fraternity secret codes are implemented. There are special rituals that all fraternities and sororities have for their “rush” process, weekly meetings, and monthly formal meetings. The sorority and fraternity secrets come into play with the fact that each ritual is written up in a handbook and kept under lock and key. Only the fraternity/sorority members are allowed access to it, and they are not allowed to discuss meetings with anyone who is not part of the fraternity/sorority.
Some of the most common sorority and fraternity secrets include handshakes, meeting locations, rushing techniques, songs and of course mottos in which all members must adhere to while in the sorority. These fraternity secrets are not meant for ill intent, but to merely keep up a practice that was introduced when the whole notion of fraternities first began. Fraternities and sororities are very much based on ritual and traditions. Having these sorority and fraternity secrets is just another way to keep the tradition alive.
It has been said these Sorority and Fraternity rituals have to be kept secret because if they were known they would be no more fraternities or sororities because they are conducting illegal activities. This is just a myth. The representation of history is all that comes with the use of these fraternity secrets. As mentioned earlier it is simply a way to honor the very beginning of fraternities and sororities and what they stood for. Fraternity and Sorority members feel that continuing with the tradition of these secret codes and ceremonies really enhances the brotherhood and sisterhood experience.
Fraternity and sorority members greatly value their fraternity secrets and find great pleasure in introducing new members to them. In a sense it feels as if they are passing down an age old secret and keeping the tradition alive for another year. These secrets are valued by each and every Greek member. The newest members quickly learn the value of these rituals and soon take on the pride that the oldest members feel on being honored with these secrets.