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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Olaszliszka, or Liska, as the local Jewish community calls it, is a magical hideaway in Hungary, where tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish peoples come every 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. 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 life of the wonderful rebbe had a great impact on the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities of that time. Annually, tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe, and the yahrzeit is commemorated 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. People from various countries also traveled to the village of Liska, seeking the Lisker Rebbe's healing expertise. There was a strong conviction within the community that the rabbi's prayers and blessings had the ability to cure physical and emotional distress. Visitors to his grave still reported experiencing his spiritual influence and comfort, even after he had passed away.


The caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery engage in work that honors not just the graves, but also the broader legacy of respect and historical remembrance. 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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