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
In Hungary, Olaszliszka—referred to as Liska by the local Jewish community—is a delightful sanctuary that sees tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish visitors annually.
Liska Jewish Cemetery is a special location where deep-seated traditions and committed faith are preserved. The holy grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, or as the community calls him: "Hershel Lisker", the first home of Hasidism in Europe, is located here. Although the first Lisker Rebbe was famously impoverished, he lived a life rich in teachings, charity, and miraculous support. He is remembered for countless miracles, having healed the sick and bestowed prosperity upon many through his blessings. The remarkable rebbe’s life significantly impacted the contemporary Orthodox Jewish communities, leaving a lasting mark on their way of life. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe every year even today. Yahrazeit: Av. 14.
The influence of Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the activities of the Liska Hasidic dynasty were instrumental in spreading Hasidism throughout Hungary and beyond. 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 earned widespread acclaim for his extraordinary talent in healing. The Lisker Rebbe's reputation for healing drew many people from other countries to the village of Liska. There was a belief in the community that the rabbi's blessing and prayers could heal physical and mental suffering. Pilgrims continued to feel his presence and receive spiritual comfort at his grave long after his death.
The actions of the two caretakers at the Liska Jewish cemetery encompass more than grave maintenance; they serve as a tribute to respect and remembrance of the past. Candles were lit at each grave, the flames of which bowed before the souls of those who once lived in this small village. The candle flames are viewed as a bridge connecting the past and the present, their light emerging from the depths of memory.
The flame of candles holds profound symbolic significance in the Jewish faith. The flames do not merely cast light, but also open a gate to all that is 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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