In Judaism the child is priority, taking precedence in all traditions and rituals.
Out of the existing 613 commandments a woman is released from all of those concerned with time as her child remains the focus.
The importance of children is evident in the many legends concerning the child in Judaism.
In no writings in Jewish history has there ever been a mention of killing babies as the child is viewed as too precious.
The soul of the baby in Judaism is with G-d until birth.
When did Judaism first come to South Africa?
The first Jewish synagogue was established 100 years ago.
Most of the Jews in South Africa are of Lithuanian origin. There are between 80 000 - 100 000 Jews in South Africa at present. The biggest community is Johannesburg.
Are there any special traditions with regard to birth and the two years thereafter
Notifying the community is really important. The birth is advertised in the newspaper for all to see. This is indicative of the very strong community ties in the Jewish community.
It is customary to have a naming ceremony, attended by all family, friends and others wanting to congratulate the family.
This is certainly not restricted to those of the Jewish faith only. It's also most convenient for the new mother who does not have the time, nor energy to entertain the many well-wishers in drips and drabs.
For boys this takes the form of a circumcision. The ceremony always takes place on the eight day, health permitting.
The community finds the information in the newspaper under Brith Milah (the covenant of circumcision). It is placed at the last minute as obviously the parents do not know beforehand what the exact date will be.
The notice often states that all friends and relatives must accept this as their personal invitation
Although it is the father's duty to circumsize his son, the rabbi or mohel perform the procedure on his behalf as he is often unskilled and not capable of doing it.
Should there be no access to a rabbi or mohel, then the procedure may be performed by a doctor or specialist. It still takes place on the eigth day.
The procedure is followed by a feast. This is usually a relatively quick event as most people have to return to work.
Traditionally, the naming ceremony for girls took place in the early weeks on the Saturday morning service at the synagogue.
The parents sponsor a tea after the service in the synagogue hall which all can attend and wish the family well.
The latest trend seems to be where parents invite family and friends to their home for a naming ceremony and feast.
This naming ceremony serves two purposes. A little girl also deserves a celebration and this allows the mother to entertain everyone at the same time. In South Africa the baby is given a Jewish and Hebrew name.
The godfather holds the baby during the procedure.
Are there any special pregnancy traditions that Jewish mothers would follow?
When one finds out that a woman is pregnant, you phone to wish her mazeltov (congratulations).
The community have such strong affiliation ties that often one phones to wish the entire extended family well.
It is not customary for Jewish people to throw stork parties and have gift registries. This is a personal choice should the pregnant woman desire one.
Do the traditions in SA differ from other countries?
No, circumcision is non-negotiable. People are accepted as Jewish by birth and then circumcision. The way in which people host the ceremonies may vary but the ceremonies themselves follow the same rules.
What would be a good gift to take?
The godfather, if he can afford it, often gives the child a silver goblet or cup. Otherwise any practical gift or clothes are popular.
A very nice tradition followed in South Africa is for a relative or close friend to inscribe the newborn's name in the Golden Book of the Child.
It is in effect a small donation made to the Jewish National Fund (JNF). Once inscribed, the person receives a certificate from the JNF which they then give to the baby's parents to frame.