"Brought into the fold" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to describe the act of including someone or something into a group, organization, community, or collective. The phrase typically implies the process of welcoming an individual or entity who was previously detached, excluded, or kept apart, and now brings them closer and fully within the desired group or value system.
The metaphorical term "fold" originates from the image of a shepherd gathering his flock, specifically referring to sheep being brought together and safely enclosed within a secure enclosure or pen. Therefore, "brought into the fold" carries connotations of unity, acceptance, protection, and a sense of belonging.
When applied to humans, "brought into the fold" often signifies the act of persuading or convincing someone to join or align themselves with a particular team, cause, faith, organization, or ideology. It suggests the process of successfully integrating them within an established group, to cooperate, share common values, and work towards common goals.
This expression can be used in various contexts, such as in business, where it may refer to the practice of recruiting new employees and integrating them into an existing company culture. Similarly, in politics, it can describe the effort to gain support or secure loyalty from a particular voter base or party.
Overall, "brought into the fold" encapsulates the assimilation of an outsider into a group, often implying a positive transition towards harmony, collaboration, teamwork, or solidarity.
