Новый год плодовых деревьев «Ту би-Шват»

Когда: 25 января

Где отмечается: Израиль

is a Jewish holiday known as the New Year of the Trees or "Tu BiShvat". It is celebrated on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, which usually falls in late January or early February. Tu BiShvat is a time to celebrate the natural world and the importance of trees and fruits in Jewish tradition.

In Israel, Tu BiShvat is a day to plant trees, enjoy the fruits of the land, and connect with nature. It is a day when school children go on field trips to plant trees, families have picnics in the countryside, and communities come together to celebrate the beauty of the land of Israel.

The origins of Tu BiShvat date back to ancient times when farmers would mark the date for tithing their produce. In the 16th century, the Kabbalists in Safed, Israel, developed a special ritual for Tu BiShvat that involved eating fruits and drinking wine from the land of Israel. This tradition has evolved over time and today, many Jews around the world celebrate Tu BiShvat by eating a variety of fruits, particularly those that are native to Israel.

One of the customs of Tu BiShvat is to have a "seder", a special meal that includes a variety of fruits and nuts. Each type of fruit is symbolic of different aspects of the natural world and the Jewish tradition. For example, figs represent the Torah, while pomegranates are a symbol of righteousness.

Another custom of Tu BiShvat is to plant trees. Planting trees is seen as a way to fulfill the commandment of "tikkun olam", or repairing the world. Tree planting is also a way to connect with the land of Israel and contribute to its preservation and sustainability.

In Israel, Tu BiShvat is a public holiday, with many schools and businesses closed for the day. It is a time for people to take a break from their daily routines and spend time in nature. Many communities organize tree-planting events, nature walks, and other activities to celebrate the holiday.

Tu BiShvat is also a time to reflect on the environment and our impact on the world around us. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations and the need to take action to protect the environment.

Overall, Tu BiShvat is a joyous and meaningful holiday that celebrates the beauty of nature and the connection between the Jewish people and the land of Israel. It is a time to plant seeds for the future, both literally and figuratively, and to appreciate the fruits of the earth.

In conclusion, Tu BiShvat is a time to celebrate the wonders of nature, the importance of trees and fruits, and our connection to the land of Israel. It is a holiday that brings people together to appreciate the beauty of the world around us and to take action to protect and preserve it for future generations. Whether by planting a tree, enjoying a variety of fruits, or simply spending time in nature, Tu BiShvat is a reminder of the richness and diversity of the natural world and our responsibility to care for it.