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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The local Jewish community calls it Liska, but Olaszliszka in Hungary is a captivating hideaway that draws tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish individuals each year.


Liska Jewish Cemetery is a special location where deep-seated traditions and committed faith are preserved. 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, 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 wonderful rebbe had a great impact on the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities of that time. Every year, tens of thousands of pilgrims journey to honor the rebbe, particularly during the yahrzeit on the 14th of Av.


The activities of the Liska Hasidic dynasty and Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman contributed to the spread of Hasidism in Hungary and worldwide. 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 placed at each grave, their flames flickering in reverence to 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 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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