Question

Selecting a “typical” Jewish client is difficult. An ultra-Orthodox Jew has a particular set of special needs. Yet, it is more common to see a Jew who is a middle-of-the-road Conservative. Sarah is an 80-year-old woman who is a first-generation American. She was raised in a traditional Conservative home. Her husband died after 50 years of a strong marriage. She has three children. Although her home is not kosher, she practices a variation of kosher-style eating, avoiding pork and not making dishes that combine meat and milk.

Two months ago, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Surgery was attempted, but the cancer was already in an advanced stage. Chemotherapy was started, but the cancer has progressed and is not responding to the medications. She is having difficulty eating because of the pressure of the tumor on the gastrointestinal tract. Discussions are being held to determine whether or not treatments should be stopped and whether hospice care should be initiated. Her hospital room is always filled with visitors.

1. God's first commandment to humanity is "Be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28), according to Jewish teaching. Describe fertility practices and views toward pregnancy in a Jewish family.

Answer 1

• A Jewish family view fertility as a way of satisfying their part in building a nation.
• A Jewish family motivates women to make use of the pregnancy months by performing good deeds and spiritual purification.
• By the end of the pregnancy, she should take part in synagogue services frequently and attend Torah study classes.
• Charity works should be done every day during pregnancy.
• A pregnant woman should be kind to others.
• She should take only Kosher foods which promotes the well being of the fetus
• Some people keep the pregnancy secret to others outside the family until 5 months.
• During the last month of pregnancy, the husband and wife should read aloud the psalms many times a day.
• She should avoid unnecessary talks and gossips during pregnancy.
• There should be a xerox of psalm 21 in her hands during the delivery.