Shabbat Gathering: Learning from the trees on Tu B'Shevat.

Brian D. Johnson

07 Feb 2025 • 5 min read

Gud Shabbos Khaveyrim, as is our custom, we will gather tonight at 5.45p ct to welcome Shabbat. These are the coordinates:

Zoom
Meeting ID: 883 8469 4181
Password: 822665
Phone: +1 312 626 6799

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Here we go.

It’s a busy night at Congregation Shaarei Shamayim. We’ll have our Shabbat Gathering and the synagogue will also have a Tu B’Shevat seder. There's something for everyone.

More than just Jewish Arbor Day.

Tu B’Shevat is a deep, mystical holiday that helps us notice the four different areas of personal growth that are mapped to the four different types of food that grow on trees.

Action, represented by fruit with an inedible outside and edible inside, like citrus. The hard shell reminds us of the protection the earth gives us.
Formation, represented by an edible outside and inedible inside, like a date or a peach. These represent how the earth gives us life.
Thought, represented by a wholly edible fruit like a fig. This symbolizes how G!d is all around us and through us.
Spirit, represented by aromatics like cinnamon. And this reminds us of the beauty and mystery of life.

This is a good time of year to make sure your roots are strong and deep. It’s a good time to check in with family and friends you’ve known a long time while also reaching your tender leaves out to new connections. That is how we continue to grow and reach new heights.

Planting the seeds.

What seeds of intention might you be planting in your heart and in your life this month? Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming life transition or just feeling stuck, ready for a change, now is the time to go inward and plant those seeds. What do those seeds need so they can bloom and blossom this spring?

And may it be for all of us a blessing.

See you tonight!
Mit vareme grusn,
(With warm regards,)

All my love,
brian.