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

Liska, as the local Jewish community calls it, is a magical hideaway in Hungary

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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.


This cemetery in Liska serves as a unique sanctuary for upholding cherished traditions and steadfast faith. Located here is the holy grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, or "Hershel Lisker" as he is known within the community, the first center 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 extraordinary life of the rebbe profoundly affected the present-day Orthodox Jewish communities, influencing their traditions and daily practices. Every year, tens of thousands of pilgrims journey to honor the rebbe, particularly during the yahrzeit on the 14th of Av.


The influence of Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the activities of the Liska Hasidic dynasty were instrumental in spreading Hasidism throughout Hungary and beyond. The Kerestir Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner, a student of the Liska Rebbe, signed his letters as: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who learned from the righteous Rebbe of Liska."


The Lisker Rebbe earned widespread acclaim for his extraordinary talent in 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. His grave remained a place where pilgrims reported feeling his enduring presence and receiving spiritual solace, even posthumously.


The two caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery performed an act that is not only the graves, but also the bearer of respect and remembrance for 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. Candles are seen as a symbolic link between past and present, with their flames shining from the heart of memory.


The flame of candles holds profound symbolic significance in the Jewish faith. More than just casting light, the flames reveal a gateway 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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