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, affectionately referred to as Liska by the local Jewish community, is a picturesque retreat in Hungary that draws tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish visitors annually.
The Liska Jewish Cemetery stands as a unique testament to enduring traditions and dedicated faith. This site is home to the revered grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, known as "Hershel Lisker" in the community, the pioneer of Hasidism in Europe. 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. 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.
Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman’s leadership and the Liska Hasidic dynasty’s endeavors greatly facilitated the dissemination of Hasidism in Hungary and around the world. Yeshaya Steiner, the Kerestir Rebbe and a student of the Liska Rebbe, signed his correspondence with: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who studied under the righteous Rebbe of Liska."
Across many places, the Lisker Rebbe was celebrated for his exceptional skills in healing. People from various countries also traveled to the village of Liska, seeking the Lisker Rebbe's healing expertise. In the community, it was widely believed that the rabbi's blessings and prayers had the power to heal both physical and mental ailments. Even after his death, several pilgrims who came to his grave experienced his survival.
The caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery performed a duty that not only preserves the graves but also upholds respect and remembrance for historical heritage. The lighting of candles at every grave allowed their flames to bend in tribute to the souls who had once lived in this serene village. The candle's light is considered a bridge linking past and present, glowing with the warmth of memories from deep within.
The flame of candles is a deep symbol of the Jewish religion. 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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