Birkat A’ Ilanot

During the month of Nissan it is also traditional to recite Birkat A'Ilanot, a blessing at the sighting of the first blossoms on fruit trees. In Turkey, this was traditionally done during the week of medianos (Hol Hamoed). However, in the New York Metro area, we cannot usually see these blossoms until early May, which usually is after the end of Nissan. Whenever the calendar allows, typically after a Jewish leap year(5 years in every 19), this is a lovely custom, although even then it must be observed the weekend after Passover ends. In Yorktown, NY it can be tied in nicely with a bicycle ride to one of the many apple orchards in the area.

Talmud - Mas. Berachoth 43b

Rab Judah says: If one goes abroad in the days of Nissan [spring time] and sees the trees sprouting, he should say:

Barukh atta Hashem, Elokenu Melekh A'olam shelo hisar b'olamo k'lum uvara bo b'riyot tovot v'ilanot tovim l'hanut b'hem b'nai adam.

‘Blessed are you Lord our God, King of the universe  who hath not left His world lacking in anything and has made in it fine creations and goodly trees for human enjoyment.

If a minyan is present, you may add psalms 122, 126 and 148  followed by a mourners kaddish.

© 2003 R. Altabet