Tu Bishvat

Tu Bishvat History

Tu Bishvat, or the "New Year for Trees", is a traditional Jewish celebration which seeks to show appreciation for trees and fruit. This observance not only promotes environmental awareness but also recalls the ancient agricultural roots of Jewish people. It also resonates strongly with the present concerns regarding the environment, underlining the importance of trees and fruit in maintaining ecological balance.

The celebration is rooted in Jewish law, where the "fruit age" of a tree determines the appropriate time for tithing its fruit. The tradition ultimately turned into a festival due to the connection Jewish diaspora felt to their homeland. Importantly for the UK, the significance of Tu Bishvat transcends religious boundaries. It corresponds with initiatives like the Renewable Energy Directive of the European Union, or the UK's own Carbon Budgets, which both target reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and endorse sustainable approaches to natural resources.

In the United Kingdom, Tu Bishvat is observed by Jewish communities but also speaks to those interested in climate change and sustainability. Observers often celebrate by hosting a Seder, where a variety of fruits and nuts are consumed, each symbolising aspects of the creation. The observance also provides an opportunity for educational programmes in schools and community centres centred on environmental conservation. Tu Bishvat usually occurs in late January or early February in the UK, let's rejoice in this celebration of trees, nature and future sustainability.

Facts & quotes about Tu Bishvat (Begins in the Evening)

• It is customary on Tu BiShvat to eat fruits of the Land of Israel, particularly those of the Biblical verse A land of wheat, and barley, and vines, and fig trees, and pomegranates; a land of oil olive, and honey (Deuteronomy 8:8). The honey in this verse refers to date honey, according to tradition. Another custom is to plant trees in Israel.
• On Tu BiShvat, we remember that Man is a Tree of the Field (Deuteronomy 20:19). It explains that we may not cut down trees during the siege of a city. The tree of the field is man's life to be used in and after the siege.
• In the Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), Tu BiShvat is symbolic of the Tree of Life.
• Similar to the Passover Seder, some British Jews hold a Tu Bishvat Seder, a meal featuring fruits, nuts, and wines or grape juice. The Seder celebrates the bounty of the Earth, and often includes discussions and reflections on the spiritual and ecological significance of the holiday.
• British Jewish community members often donate money or plant trees in Israel through organizations such as the Jewish National Fund (JNF) to commemorate Tu Bishvat.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Tu Bishvat

Top things to do in the UK for Tu Bishvat

• Say Blessings for new Fruit. Two blessings are said for new fruits (which have not yet been eaten that year), namely the standard blessing for fruits ..Who created the fruits of the tree and ..Who kept us alive, and sustained us and allowed us to reach this day.
• Attend a Tu Bishvat tisch which is popular in Hasidic communities. A Tisch is the Yiddish word for table. It refers to a festive meal with Holy Land fruits, wine, bread, fish and other foods.
• Read a book related to Tu Bishvat such as:
  Trees, Earth, and Torah: A Tu B'Shvat Anthology - by Ari Elon, Naomi Mara Hyman, Arthur Waskow.
  The Birthday of the Trees: A Celebration of Tu B'Shvat - by Rabbi Emily S. Damron.
  Tu B'shevat: Celebrating The Wonders Of Trees - by Rabbi Marcia Prager.
  Harvest of Light: A Family Celebrates Tu B'shvat - by Allison Ofanansky, Eliyahu Alpern.
  Tu B'Shevat for Kids! Enjoy Fun Tu B'Shevat Activities, Plant a Tree & Celebrate with a Tu B'Shevat Seder - by Leanne Annett.
• Popular places you can visit during Tu Bishvat in the UK are:
  1) Jewish Museums: The Jewish Museum in London usually hosts special exhibitions and activities for Tu Bishvat.
  2) Synagogues: Attend services at local synagogues. Some have special Tu Bishvat seders or plant trees to mark the occasion.
  3) JW3 Jewish Cultural Centre: In London, the JW3 often organizes cultural events or themed activities around the holiday.

Tu Bishvat references