Tu B’Shvat

Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of Trees, falls on the fifteenth day of the month of Shvat. It originated in a pagan festival honoring Asherah, goddess of farmers and fertility. Her chief festival took place at the end of the rainy season, when the sap begins to rise in the fruit trees of Israel. – in other words, at the first signs of spring.

Tu B’Shvat represents one of the three agricultural holidays (along with Sukkot and Shavuot) that reveal the matriarchic roots of Judaism, a time before Eve was expelled from the Garden and Queen Vashti tossed out for not showing up at the King’s banquet. Tu B’Shvat originated in a pagan festival honoring Asherah, goddess of farmers and fertility.  We reflect on our stewardship of nature, gathering to share food, music and fellowship.

While the holiday has changed over the centuries, today in the US, it is seen as a time to celebrate nature and affirm our relationship to the Earth.  And, we’re speaking out about climate change impact, raising our voices to protect our health, wildlife and environment for our children, CHJ will, once again, join the Jewish Climate Alliance’s Tu B’Shvat National Climate Lobbying Day.  Come learn how to make your voice heard by our US Senators.

Guitarist Adam Feder  will lead the singing and the joyful service celebrating nature and reminding us of the threats to its continuity by climate change and other environmental hazards. Seder ceremonial food gift bags (includes: nuts, dried fruit, apples and more) will be  distributed to members who reserved them.

Like the trees, we too need strong and deep roots for nourishment. Attend for uplifting spiritual and social warmth in the cold winter.

Below are photos of a live Tu B’Shvat seder pre-pandemic.

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