Liska, as the local Jewish community calls it, is a magical hideaway in Hungary
Liska, as the local Jewish community calls it, is a magical hideaway in Hungary
Blog Article
Olaszliszka, or Liska as it is known among the local Jewish community, is a unique haven in Hungary that attracts tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish people every year.
Liska Jewish Cemetery is a special location where deep-seated traditions and committed faith are preserved. Here lies the sacred resting place of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, affectionately called "Hershel Lisker" by the community, marking the birthplace of Hasidism in Europe. The first Lisker Rebbe, despite his famous poverty, lived his life in the spirit of teachings, charity, and miraculous assistance. His name is associated with countless miraculous deeds: sick people visited the famous rebbe and received healing, but he also helped many to prosperity with his blessing. The remarkable rebbe’s life significantly impacted the contemporary Orthodox Jewish communities, leaving a lasting mark on their way of life. Even today, tens of thousands of pilgrims make their way to visit the rebbe each year, with the yahrzeit observed on the 14th of Av.
The efforts of the Liska Hasidic dynasty and Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman played a pivotal role in the expansion of Hasidism both in Hungary and across the globe. His disciple, the Kerestir Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner, also known as Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir, often signed his correspondence with the phrase: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska."
The Lisker Rebbe was renowned across many regions for his healing abilities. The Lisker Rebbe's reputation for healing drew many people from other countries to the village of Liska. The community held a deep belief that the rabbi's blessings and prayers could alleviate physical and mental suffering. His grave remained a place where pilgrims reported feeling his enduring presence and receiving spiritual solace, even posthumously.
By tending to the Liska Jewish cemetery, the two caretakers have not only managed the graves but also carried forward the values of respect and historical memory. Candles were lit at each grave, the flames of which bowed before the souls of those who once lived in this small village. Candles are seen as a symbolic link between past and present, with their flames shining from the heart of memory.
The candle's flame represents a deep and meaningful symbol within the Jewish religion. The flames not only shine but also unlock a passage to the Eternal.
As the Book says: "Man's soul is the Lord's lamp, which searches out all the innermost parts." Proverbs 20:27
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