Tu B’Shevat (15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat) is celebrated this year on eve of January 20, 2019. It marks the beginning of a “New Year for Trees.” This is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.
Tu B’Shevat is observed by eating fruit such as are noted in the Torah in its praise of the bounty of the Holy Land: figs, pomegranates, dates, olives, grapes. It is a common custom for many to eat carob as well.
Children across the country gather and plant trees in their school yards, their home gardens or parks. It is a very festive occurrence that brings hope of new beginnings to the extent that many of Israel’s major institutions have chosen this day for their inauguration.
The blessing given on fruit:
Baruch Atah A-donay, Elo-heinu Melech ha’Olam borei pri ha-etz.
[Blessed are You, L-rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who creates the fruit of the tree.]
While Tu B’Shevat is not mentioned in the Bible there is scripture which tells us about the land God chose for the Hebrew people:
“…for the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land… a land of wheat and barley, figs and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey.” Deuteronomy 8:7-8
Join United With Israel in celebrating Tu B’Shevat. Bring bounty to the land of Israel by ordering a fruit tree! Click here for details.
To request a Free, No Obligation Quote to bring your group to tour Israel during next
Tu B’Shevat click here.