Today is Tu B'Shvat, The Jewish New Year for Trees in Israel. It's Also Groundhog Day. What a Coincidence!

 

Today we celebrate Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish New Year for Trees in Israel.  This least known Jewish holiday is really fun.  No prohibitions that we know of, only eating, drinking, and reciting a Tu B'Shvat Haggadah.  Seems like a great way to get ready for Purim, only one month away, and Pesach, only two months away.

Singer/songwriter Carol Boyd Leon reflects on the timing of Tu B'Shvat and Groundhog Day - on the hopes for spring expressed as Americans gather in Punxatawney, PA to see if the groundhog won't see its shadow, and hopes for new growth as Israelis plant seedlings.

Her song Groundhog Noses was recorded in 2004 on her Gan Shirim (A Garden of Songs) double album which includes 70 original songs that teach about Jewish holidays, values and more through fun.   

 

So enjoy the day with fruits and foods from the seven species mentioned in the Torah (wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.)

 

Chag Sameach!