What is Tu B'shevat?

Tu B'shevat is the new year for the trees — a uniquely Jewish holiday celebrating nature, agriculture, and Israel's connection to the land. Here's what Tu B'shevat is all about:

The Meaning

Tu B'shevat (literally "the 15th of Shevat") was originally a tax day in ancient Israel — the cutoff for figuring out tithes on fruit trees. Today, it's celebrated as a kind of Jewish Earth Day, honoring trees, environmental stewardship, and the land of Israel.

Eating the Seven Species

The Torah names seven species native to the Land of Israel: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates. On Tu B'shevat, it's traditional to eat fruits from these species, especially ones that come from Israel.

Tu B'shevat Seder

A kabbalistic tradition that grew in popularity in the 16th century. The Tu B'shevat seder includes four cups of wine (white to red, symbolizing the changing seasons) and eating fruits in three categories: those with inedible exteriors (nuts), those with inedible interiors (peaches, olives), and those entirely edible (figs, grapes).

Planting Trees in Israel

Through organizations like the Jewish National Fund (JNF), many people plant trees in Israel on Tu B'shevat — sometimes in honor of a loved one. A meaningful way to participate from anywhere in the world.

Environmental Mitzvot

Tu B'shevat has evolved into a day for environmental activism in Jewish communities. Tree planting, recycling drives, learning about Israeli ecology — living the value of bal tashchit ("do not waste").