Question I am a nursing student, and am trying to find Jewish laws and customs as it relates to pregnancy and birth in order to be able to provide competent care. I understand about the Sabbath and was wondering what would happen if labor happened to fall on that day, also I Heard that there was a special labor oil used during birth. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you.
Answer Johnie,
Thank you for your kind question and obvious sensitivity. Nursing seems a great calling for you.
Since you are not Jewish, Sabbath and other Jewish law will not significantly alter the healthcare you provide to Jews. However, just for your knowledge, the Torah tells us that the commandments were given that man might live by them (not die by them). As such, Jewish law requires that all the commandments, save 3, be set aside to save a life. Certainly labor and delivery as well as the care of all hospitalized patients fall into the category of a life potentially in danger. Women go into labor every day of the week and the laws of Sabbath must be set aside for delivery, etc. The 3 laws that cannot be broken, even to save a life, are murder, unlawful sexual unions and idolatry.
Where you can add a special touch is being sensitive to your Jewish patient's needs on Sabbath. There are a number of restrictions on what a Jew can do or ask to be done for him or herself on Sabbath. Helping them with their menu selections (Jews don't write on Sabbath) or noting "It seems a bit cool in here, I think I'll turn down the air if it's ok with you" or "My isn't it bright in here, is it ok if I turn down the lights?" (Jews also don't control their environment on the Sabbath) are all appropriate. Hope this gives you some pointers.
Thanks again and all the best in your studies. Shalom!
