6 Ways to Celebrate Tu B'Shevat

Shutterstock.com

Tu B’Shevat in Hebrew means the 15th day of the month and will begin on the Shevat (February) on the Jewish calendar. The day will mark the beginning of a New Year for the trees. The reason for this is that the trees, once quiescent during the winter, start another fruit-bearing cycle. Tu B’Shevat or Israeli Arbor Day (in modern terms) has a deeper meaning than initially interpreted, however. During this 24 hour period, the people of Israel celebrate Tu B’Shevat by eating fruit as instructed by the Torah. This includes eating from the trees that produce nuts, figs, olives, pomegranates and dates. The holiday is another way to reflect on God's giving the Jewish people their own nation. It is a celebration of a new beginning, responsibility, reflection and overcoming personal setbacks. Here 6 ways to personally celebrate the Tu B’Shevat holiday.