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
Known as Liska to the local Jewish community, Olaszliszka is a charming destination in Hungary that welcomes tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish travelers each year.
At Liska Jewish Cemetery, traditions and devoted faith find a unique and sacred place. The tomb of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, belovedly referred to as "Hershel Lisker" by the community, and the original site of Hasidism in Europe, is situated here. The first Lisker Rebbe, renowned for his profound humility despite his renowned poverty, lived a life devoted to teachings, charity, and miraculous aid. His name is linked with numerous miraculous events: the sick came to him for healing, and many prospered through his blessings. The life of the esteemed rebbe had a profound influence on the Orthodox Jewish communities of his time, shaping their present and practices. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe annually, with the yahrzeit taking place on the 14th of Av.
Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the Liska Hasidic dynasty significantly contributed to the growth of Hasidism in Hungary and worldwide. 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. Individuals from different nations also made their way to Liska, requesting healing from the esteemed Lisker Rebbe. In the community, it was widely believed that the rabbi's blessings and prayers had the power to heal both physical and mental ailments. Despite his death, numerous pilgrims who visited his grave claimed to experience a sense of his continued presence.
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 set alight at each grave, their flames bowing in homage to the departed souls of this once vibrant village. The flame of the candles is considered a kind of bridge between the past and the present, the light of which shines from the depths of memory.
In Judaism, the candle flame serves as a powerful symbol with deep religious meaning. Beyond providing light, the flames serve as a portal to the realm of 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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