Another Successful Rosh Chodesh Features Tu B’Shvat

On Wednesday February 4, Sheila Wolfe graciously hosted 35 NCJW Sacramento members to schmooze and partake in holiday-appropriate foods of the Jewish festival of trees – Tu B’Shvat. Tu B’Shvat literally translates to the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. In Hebrew numerology, the letters Tet (9) and Vav (6) combine to form Tu (15).

In ancient times, Tu B’Shvat was a date on the calendar that Jewish farmers used to
know exactly when they should bring their 4th-year produce of fruit from recently planted trees to the Temple as first-fruit offerings. By this time of year, most of the winter rains in Israel have fallen, and the trees are beginning their new fruit-bearing cycle. Originally, Tu B’Shvat was a tax deadline – now it is a minor festival.

Leslie Holzman and June Wiaz gave a short presentation about the holiday, which
appeals especially to those of us who embrace the religious connection to our natural
world. Then we broke into smaller groups to discuss topics such as the significance of
trees in the middle of winter and how we can use this holiday to reconnect with our
natural world, among other discussion topics.

Rosh Chodesh gatherings are wonderful opportunities to meet other NCJW members in a relaxing and informative environment. Be on the lookout for announcements on our weekly eNews. They occur every other month. In the meantime, happy tree hugging!