The Tu BiShvat tradition dates back to the Mishna era, nonetheless it was only in the 16th century that this custom was adopted by the Kabbalists who gathered around the Holy Ari in Safed. Today, this day is filled with joy because we understand in it the gift that the Almighty has given us - to return to the land of our ancestors and participate in the blessing of the new fruits. This ceremony also represents our gratitude to the Almighty and the rebirth of Israel.
Tu BiShvat is celebrated on the 15th day of the month, or alternatively, in the middle of the month, at the moment when the moon is full. Perhaps this is to remind us that true completeness in the spirit of the Torah is found balanced in the center - the golden path.
In the Talmud, Rabbi Joshua argues that the beginning of the world's creation was on the 25th of Adar, whereas the completion of creation with its final creation being humans, occurred on the 1st of Nissan. This is contrary to the widely accepted view that the world was created from the 25th of Elul to the 1st of Tishrei. According to Rabbi Joshua, the world's creation occurred on the 15th of Shevat, 40 days before the beginning of the month of Nissan. This helps us better understand the significance of this day and the reality of the cosmic forces present during this period. It is a joyous date for us since it indicates renewal and furthermore, invites us to make positive decisions inspired by the awakening of nature.
We celebrate the flourishing of the trees' sap. This is not yet the blossoming stage, but rather the internal process which occurs within the tree itself. We celebrate the holiday of trees at a time when we still cannot see its results, being the fruits. This entire process is based solely on human faith. This process is a metaphor for life: with patience, persistence work, dedication, and commitment, a person will reap the joy and success. When your actions flourish, it's not only the trees celebrating with you; the Almighty, who loves you, is also rejoicing.
Similarly, engaging in the construction of the Third Temple requires growth and faith in the current existence of our era. Let us nurture this potential, and even if it takes some time until we see the Third Temple, our faith will bear its fruits.
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