Tu Bishvat

Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites This Thursday is Tu

Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites

Tu Bishvat, the 15^th of the month of Shvat, is this Thursday.  It is a holiday referred to in ancient sources as the “New Year for Trees.” This name expresses the concept that this day marks the beginning of a new year for the fruits of a tree growing in the Land of Israel.  Love of the Land of Israel and of nature made this day particularly loved by the Jewish nation in Israel and abroad.  It is customary on this day to eat from the fruits of the Land of Israel and focus on the connection between the Jewish nation and its homeland.