ABSTRACT
The pattern of Hasidic family life in Europe consisted of extended families with several generations of a family living in the same house or, at least, in close proximity. The Hasidim had to establish a means of making new acquaintances within the community so that persons might meet their own type of religious people who would qualify for marriage. This problem of selecting a mate is met through the aid of community members who act in the capacity of shadchan, or marriage broker. The children are expected to respect their parents and they are trained to be observant Jews. The boy is taught to become a religious man observing all the laws and rituals prescribed by the Code of Jewish law and by the Hasidic community. One of the most important functions of the Hasidic family is procreation, which is a commandment of God. Birth control is not practiced among the majority of Hasidic women.
