Why do Jewish people not allow their children to get their first haircut until 3 years old?

Question

And what is the correct Jewish term for it... apparently their is a celebration when child reaches 3 years of age.

I suspect there is a reason for this practise going back to a common-sense reason when the Jewish people lived mostly in the desert.

Answer 1

Some Orthodox Jews believe a story that goes as follows.

Adam (as in Adam and Eve) had a previous wife, called Lillith. She was created at the same time as Adam - in the first chapter of Genesis, we read "man and woman created He them". Because of this she thought she was Adam's equal (can you imagine?!?), including in matters of sex (she wanted to be on top). As a result, she was banished and became a demon.

To this day, she tries to steal away baby boys. To prevent this, some parents refuse to get boys' hair cut until they are three, so that Lillith (who's obviously not very intelligent) thinks they are girls.

Well, that's the story.

Answer 2

Not all Jews, only some chassidic groups.

It's called Upsherin.

Here's a link with everything you wanted to know about Upsherin and were afraid to ask: http://judaism.about.com/od/bris/f/upsherin.htm

Answer 3

all my kids had their first cut over 3. and i'm not jewish!

kids hair generally don't need a cut until that age, maybe thats the answer!

nothing to do with religion.

Answer 4

I didn't know that about the cutting the hair, but if it is true it could be their custom.

Answer 5

haha, i love what fred sandford said......fighting over a penny...........hahahaha

Answer 6

Its called beating a dollar to a pulp. The jews are TIGHT with their money.....do you know how copper wire was invented? two jews fighting over a penny