The Gematria of Tu B'Shvat
- This is the interpretation of the Beracha:
"Borei Nefashos Rabos Vechesronan" - He created many creatures and that which they lack-i.e., basic necessities without which man could not exist, such as bread and water;
"Al Kol Ma She'Barasa" - In addition to all that which You created, i.e., all the varieties of foods;
"Le'Hachayos Bahem Nefesh Kol Chai" - To give life to all living beings...
- In the Beracha said in the month of Nissan on blossoming fruit trees it says - "Ve’Ilanos Tovos Le’Hanos Bohem B’nei Adam" - [Hashem created] good trees to bring pleasure to people.
- The Mishna Berurah (225 - P 19) quotes the Yerushalmi that it is a mitzva to eat a little of each new fruit of the year in order to show appreciation for Hashem's creation.
These ideas are hinted to in the Gematria:
This is the Day to Give Thanks for All Types of Fruit of the
Zeh Yom Lehodos Al Kol Minei Pri Haetz =
12 + 56 + 451 + 100 + 50 + 110 + 290 + 165 = 1234
The 15th Day of the Month of Shvat =
chamisha asar shvat =
353 + 570 + 311 = 1234
Tu Be'Shvat Sameach!