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. 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.
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. The Kerestir Rebbe, Yeshaya Steiner—known as Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir—often signed his writings: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who was a disciple of the righteous Rebbe of Liska."
The Lisker Rebbe was famous far and wide for healing. The village of Liska attracted numerous individuals from abroad, who came seeking the Lisker Rebbe's renowned healing powers. The rabbi's blessings and prayers were thought to possess healing powers for both physical and mental suffering within the community. Even after his death, several pilgrims who came to his grave experienced his survival.
The two caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery undertook a task that goes beyond maintaining the graves; they are also custodians of respect and remembrance for the past. Each grave was marked by a candle, its flame bowing respectfully to the spirits of those who once called this small village home. The flames of the candles are regarded as a conduit between the past and the present, their glow reflecting the depths of remembrance.
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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