The Tree and the Human Soul: What Tu b'Shevat Teaches Us About Growth, Roots, and Renewal

The verse says, “For man is a tree of the field” (Devarim 20:19). With this expression, the Creator reveals a deep connection between the human being and the tree. Let us observe how many parallels exist between them.

The Seed

A small seed is planted in the ground so that in the future it may grow into a tree. The seed is the source of the tree’s very existence — it contains within it the full potential of the tree that will one day emerge. The seed decays in the soil, and it is precisely from this decay that new life develops.

So too, a person begins from a “seed” hidden deep within the mother’s womb — a seed containing both the physical and spiritual blueprint that will shape the person for life. Just as no one would expect an apple seed to produce an orange, or a grain of wheat to grow into figs — so too, each person grows according to the inner potential planted within them.

The Roots

A tree’s roots anchor it and give it life. Without roots, it cannot grow. Through its roots, the tree absorbs water and nutrients from its surroundings.

Human beings also draw what they need from their environment. Our senses and instincts function like roots — providing us with what is necessary for life.

Just as the quality of a tree’s surroundings affects its growth, so too does the spiritual, emotional, and social environment of a person shape their development. Positive nourishment produces positive outcomes.

The Trunk

The trunk represents the visible presence of the tree above the ground. Without a trunk, there is no tree. The trunk must be guided, supported, and sometimes pruned — so that the tree can grow tall, strong, and stable.

So too with human growth — guidance, education, care, and discipline enable a person to fully develop the potential within them.

As our sages taught: the left hand should gently push away the negative, and the right hand should lovingly draw near the positive — a little criticism, and much encouragement.

The Leaves

Leaves are the first sign of the tree’s vitality. A tree without leaves appears lifeless. Healthy leaves indicate healthy growth; diseased or sparse leaves reveal that care and attention are needed.

So too in a person — emotional, spiritual, and physical wellbeing reflect the investment made in their upbringing and inner life.

Seasons of Fall and Renewal

Trees experience cycles: fall and shedding, followed by renewal and blossoming. This teaches us that life also contains ups and downs — periods of decline and seasons of growth.

The lesson is not to despair — steady, gradual growth brings stability, whereas rapid growth may fade quickly.

Grafting — Creating Future Fruit

A tree does not bear fruit without grafting or pollination — a process that enables the creation of new fruit and symbolizes the creation of the next generation.

Grafting is likened to marriage, a sacred bond of love, dedication, and mutual investment, through which future generations are brought into the world.

Our children are the fruits of our labor — the result of our education, guidance, and love.

The Fruits

The fruit is the ultimate purpose of the tree — its beauty, shade, fragrance, and produce. Some trees offer one of these qualities, and some offer all of them.

The question is: What kind of tree are you?

The Midrash tells of a traveler who rested beneath a fruitful tree beside a flowing stream. He drank of its water, ate of its fruit, and slept in its shade. Upon leaving, he turned to the tree and blessed it: “Tree, tree — how shall I bless you?
If I say, ‘May you be planted by streams of water,’ — you already stand by streams of water.
If I say, ‘May your shade be great,’ — your shade is already great.
If I say, ‘May your fruit be sweet,’ — your fruit is already sweet and good.
Therefore, I bless you that all your offspring shall be like you — rooted by streams of water, full of shade, and bearing sweet fruit.”

May it be Hashem’s will that the fruits of all the people of Israel be good, sweet, and filled with blessing.