2I find that some of these taboos are observed by the uneducated Tagalogs of Manila and by the peasants of Tayábas Province.
The general idea prevailing in the observation of these taboos is one of sympathy by which a certain action, productive of a certain physical effect in one subject may produce by some sympathetic correlation an analogous effect in another. An instance will make this clear. To wear a necklace is an action in itself perfectly innocuous and even beneficial, in so far as it enhances the person of the wearer, but for the Manóbo man and wife such a proceeding at this particular time would produce, by some species of mystic correlation, a binding effect on the child in the hour of parturition, and must accordingly be eschewed.
These taboos are in force from the time when the young wife announces her condition until the end of that trying period that follows conception.
TABOOS TO BE OBSERVED BY THE HUSBAND
1. He must avoid all untoward acts, such as quarreling and haggling.
2. His demeanor must be quiet; he must avoid noisy and impetuous actions, such as taking part in the capture of a domestic pig.
3. He must avoid all heavy work, such as the felling of trees, making of canoes, or erection of house posts.
4. He must not engage in any work connected with rattan, such as tying or splicing.
5. He must in no case use resin3 for the purpose of sticking handles or shafts on weapons.