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Tu B'Shevat: Jewish celebration focuses on the natural world
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- Photo: An olive branch, from the time of Noah and the flood, is symbolic of peace, hope and strength to carry on. The beauty of a tree is based on the fruit it produces; good deeds are the fruit that man can produce.
Special to the Packet
The 15th day in the Jewish month of Shevat is known as Tu B'Shevat, which is celebrated as the New Year for Trees. Think of it as a type of Earth Day or Arbor Day, a time to recognize and respect the natural world around us. This year, the holiday begins at sunset Sunday, and local Jews will be honoring the day with several customs.
Origins
Tithes, or taxes, were once collected on fruit trees, determined by the age of the tree. For this purpose, Tu B'Shevat was set for the tree's birth, regardless of when it actually started to grow. Once tithing stopped on trees, the day took on a spiritual and symbolic meaning. Nowadays Jews typically celebrate with a seder (a ceremonial meal).
Local connection
Rabbi Arthur Segal and his wife, Ellen, have opened their Hilton Head Island home to host a seder after sundown Sunday. He expects about 50 people to attend and an ordained cantor and soloists to chant. Segal said he's opened his doors based on the concept of Jewish hospitality. As is said in the Passover Seder, "All who are hungry, come and eat."
Celebration
Eaten are foods with the seven grains and fruits associated with the land of Israel -- wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates -- each with a spiritual meaning. The olive tree, for example, can thrive in all types of terrain. An olive branch, from the time of Noah and the flood, is symbolic of peace, hope and strength to carry on. The beauty of a tree is based on the fruit it produces; good deeds are the fruit that man can produce.
Four cups of wine are used, symbolizing the changes of the season -- dark red, light red, pink and white. Other customs include planting trees or collecting money to plant trees in Israel.
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