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.
Liska Jewish Cemetery is a unique place for traditions and dedicated faith. The holy grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, or as the community calls him: "Hershel Lisker", the first home of Hasidism in Europe, is located here. 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 rebbe’s impactful life played a crucial role in shaping the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities during his time. Even today, tens of thousands of pilgrims make their way to visit the rebbe each year, with the yahrzeit observed 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 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."
Known far and wide, the Lisker Rebbe gained fame for his remarkable healing powers. Many international visitors migrated to Liska, coming in hopes of receiving healing from the Lisker Rebbe. There was a strong conviction within the community that the rabbi's prayers and blessings had the ability to cure physical and emotional distress. Even after his death, several pilgrims who came to his grave experienced his survival.
The two caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery undertook a task that goes beyond maintaining the graves; they are also custodians of respect and remembrance for the past. 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.
Within the Jewish religion, the candle flame is a deeply symbolic element, reflecting important spiritual truths. 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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