Celebrating the Tu Bishvat Holiday: Israel's New Year of the Trees
Tu Bishvat (ט"ו בשבט) is the Hebrew date for the 15th day of the month of Shevat. Normally this date comes in February or early March on the Western calendar. The Tu Bishvat holiday is rich in symbolic meaning and is commonly known as Israel's Arbor Day or the “New Year” of Trees!
So, why do we celebrate a "birthday" for trees in Jewish tradition? The answer lies in the desire to apply God's word in our daily lives and ensure we are walking in His ways—a question as relevant today as ever.
In Leviticus 19:23-25, the Lord commands Israel:
“When you come into the land and plant any kind of tree for food, then you shall regard its fruit as forbidden. Three years it shall be forbidden to you; it must not be eaten.
And in the fourth year all its fruit shall be holy, an offering of praise to the Lord. But in the fifth year, you may eat of its fruit, to increase its yield for you: I am the Lord your God."
To keep track of the years of newly planted trees and know when to bring an offering of the fruit to the Lord or when to eat from the tree, the Rabbis established the 15th day of Shevat as the "birthday" for all trees.
Today, in Israel, many people celebrate the Tu Bishvat holiday by eating fruit and their “Tu Bishvat Seder”, planting trees or seeds, and communities often gather for fun outdoor games and picnics.
At Sar-El, we would love for you to experience the Tu Bishvat holiday and witness the earliest signs of Spring blooming across Israel, even through the rain showers. We hope to see you in the land when it is in full bloom!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the Tu Bishvat holiday?
The Tu Bishvat holiday, also known as the "New Year" of Trees, is celebrated on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat.
2. Why is the Tu Bishvat holiday important in Jewish tradition?
The Tu Bishvat holiday marks the age of trees to determine when their fruit can be eaten or offered to God, following the guidelines in Leviticus 19:23-25.
3. How do people in Israel celebrate the Tu Bishvat holiday?
During the Tu Bishvat holiday, people in Israel celebrate by eating fruit (specifically highlighting the 7 species of Israel), planting trees or seeds, and enjoying the early signs of spring across the country.