Here are a few important facts about Tu B'Shevat:
1. Tu B'Shevat (the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat) is known as the New Year for Trees.
2. It is traditional to eat fruit on this day, especially fruits grown in the Land of Israel. These include olives, dates, grapes, figs and pomegranates. You should say the appropriate blessing for the fruit you eat.
For most fruits:
Ba-ruch atah Ado-nai, Elo-hei-nu me-lech ha-olam, borei pri ha-etz.
[Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who creates the fruit of the tree.]
If you eat a fruit for the first time this season, add the following blessing:
Ba-ruch a-tah Ado-nai, Elo-hei-nu me-lech ha-olam, she-heche-ya-nu ve-ki-ye-ma-nu ve-higi-a-nu liz-man ha-zeh.
[Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion.]
3. Some communities have the custom of holding a Tu B'Shevat seder when they eat seasonal fruits, sing songs appropriate to the day, and discuss the meaning of the occasion.
4. In Israel the day is celebrated like a "Jewish Arbor Day." Trees are planted and various events promote environmental awareness.
Have a joyous and healthy Tu B'Shevat!
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