Tu BiShvat

Tu BiShvat
Type	Jewish religious and cultural
Significance	New Year for Trees
Observances	Planting trees, eating fruit, Tu BiShvat seder
Date	15th day of Shevat
Related to	Jewish holidays

Tu BiShvat (Hebrew: ט״ו בשבט , "the 15th of Shevat") is a Jewish holiday, occurring on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. It is also known as the "New Year for Trees" (Hebrew: ראש השנה לאילנות , Rosh HaShanah La'Ilanot).

Historical Background

Tu BiShvat has its origins in the Mishna, where it is mentioned as one of the four new years in the Jewish calendar. The holiday was originally a date for calculating the age of trees for tithing purposes, as outlined in the Torah. According to Jewish law, fruit from trees may not be eaten during the first three years; the fourth year's fruit is for God, and after that, the fruit can be eaten. Tu BiShvat was used as the cut-off date for determining the age of the tree.

Modern Observance

In modern times, Tu BiShvat has become a day of environmental awareness and action. It is celebrated by planting trees and eating fruit, particularly the Seven Species (Shiv'at HaMinim) that are mentioned in the Torah as being special products of the Land of Israel: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.

Tu BiShvat Seder

In the 16th century, the Kabbalists of Safed developed a Tu BiShvat seder, somewhat similar to the Passover seder. This ritual involves the eating of specific fruits and nuts, drinking four cups of wine, and reciting blessings and readings that emphasize the spiritual connection to the land of Israel and the natural world.

Environmental Significance

Tu BiShvat has gained significance as a day of ecological awareness. Many Jewish communities around the world use this day to focus on environmental issues, such as sustainability and conservation. Activities often include tree planting ceremonies, educational programs, and discussions on how to protect the environment.

Customs and Traditions

• Planting Trees: Many Jewish communities and organizations, such as the Jewish National Fund, organize tree planting events in Israel and around the world.
• Eating Fruit: It is customary to eat fruit, especially those that are native to the land of Israel. Some people make a special effort to eat the Seven Species.
• Tu BiShvat Seder: Some families and communities hold a seder, which includes readings, songs, and the consumption of various fruits and nuts.

Also see

• Jewish holidays
• Seven Species
• Kabbalah
• Jewish National Fund
• Environmentalism in Judaism