Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai taught: “If you have a sapling in your hand and someone tells you the Messiah has arrived, first plant the sapling and then go out to welcome the Messiah” (Avot d’ Rabbi Natan B31). This teaching by one of our most important sages is certainly counterintuitive. Before running out to greet the long-awaited Messiah, one must first do the seemingly mundane work of planting a tree. Rabbi Yochanan highlights the spiritual nature of tree-planting, grounding the action in the redemption of the world.

The spiritual and practical nature of trees and tree planting is celebrated most fully during the holiday of tu bishvat, the 15th of Shevat (this year February 7-8). In ancient Israel, the 15th of Shevat marked the beginning of the tax year for the tithing of fruit trees. Ten percent of all produce was set aside for the support of the poor and the landless Levites and priests. Continue reading →