Tradition: Shevat 15 (Tu bi-Shevat) determines the taking of terumot (offerings) and tithes from fruit for the Temple. In the 16th century the Kabbalists of Safed instituted the Tu bi­Shevat Seder, an "ordered" meal resembling the Passover Seder. In the 19th century, the first Zionists initiated the practice of planting trees, a custom that was established in the Jewish agricultural settlements in the Land of Israel, and contributed to the building and growth of the Land.

Sign of the Zodiak: The Water-Bearer.

In nature: the almond trees blossom and the fields of grain are yeilow with mustard flowers.

Written by Dr. Dov Herman, Bar-Ilan University.

The stamp was issued in 2002, one of 12 stamps dedicated to the months of The Hebrew Calendar. Designer: Miri Sofer. Zodiak sign stamp issued 1961, designer: I. Blaushild.