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 it is known among the local Jewish community, is a unique haven in Hungary that attracts tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish people every year.


Liska Jewish Cemetery is a unique place for traditions and dedicated faith. 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. Despite his well-known poverty, the first Lisker Rebbe's life was a testament to his dedication to spiritual teachings, charitable deeds, and miraculous help. His name is associated with numerous miracles, including healing the ill and blessing many towards prosperity. The remarkable rebbe’s life significantly impacted the contemporary Orthodox Jewish communities, leaving a lasting mark on their way of life. The rebbe continues to attract tens of thousands of pilgrims each year, with the yahrzeit celebrated on the 14th of Av.


The Liska Hasidic dynasty, along with Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman, was crucial in advancing the reach of Hasidism within Hungary and internationally. His student, the Kerestir rebbe, Yeshaya Steiner (known as Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir (Kerestirer)‏), who later signed his correspondence as follows: „Yeshaya son of R. Moshe, who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska”


Across many places, the Lisker Rebbe was celebrated for his exceptional skills in healing. Many international visitors migrated to Liska, coming in hopes of receiving healing from the 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. Even after his passing, many pilgrims visiting his grave reported experiencing his spiritual 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. The lighting of candles at every grave allowed their flames to bend in tribute to the souls who had once lived in this serene 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.


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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