BecomingJewish.Org >> Jewish Holidays >> Tu B'Shevat

Hebrew Date: Fifteenth of Shevat

Secular Dates: (5770) Jan 30, 2010 | (5771) Jan 20, 2011 | (5772) February 8, 2012

Duration: One day

Work: Permitted

Name: Tu B'Shevat

Tu B'Shevat, the Jewish Ecology Day, occurs on 15 Shevat (in January or February). Tu B’Shevat is an agricultural holiday that celebrates the earth and its produce. It is the new year for the purpose of calculating the age of trees for tithing (Leviticus 19:23-25). It is celebrated through prayer, celebration, and eating the seven types of plant produce that are cited in Deuteronomy 8:8 (wheat, barley, grape, fig, pomegranate, olives, and date-honey). Other customs include eating a new fruit on this day, planting trees on this day, collecting money for trees for Israel, and holding a seder.

Additional Information: Tu B'Shevat: The New Year for Trees :: Tu B'Shevat :: Tu B'shvat :: Celebrating Nature's Bounty :: Tu BiShvat

Family Activities: Tu B'Shvat Seder :: Tu B'Shvat Coloring Pages

BEHOLD THY G-D
By Rachel-Esther bat-Avraham

Have you ever had a spiritual experience while communing with nature? Have you ever wondered why one says a brocha when one sees something beautiful? I have had many spiritual experiences while alone, walking or sitting and breathing in the beauty of the nature around me. Saying a brocha and blessing G-d for the beauty around me enhances that spiritual experience.

Many people in the modern day do not take time to stop and see the beauty around them. Many people do not take time to ponder on the beauty and intricacies of a blade of grass or a maple leaf, or a beautiful rose petal. G-d is showing His presence in our world through the beauty of nature. It is only right that we praise G-d and say a brocha when we experience this beauty.

Remember, stop and experience nature and praise G-d for the beauty that surrounds you.

© Rachel-Esther bat-Avraham 2003-2010