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.


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 rebbe’s impactful life played a crucial role in shaping the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities during his time. Every year, tens of thousands of pilgrims journey to honor the rebbe, particularly during the yahrzeit on the 14th of Av.


The efforts of the Liska Hasidic dynasty and Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman played a pivotal role in the expansion of Hasidism both in Hungary and across the globe. Yeshaya Steiner, the Kerestir Rebbe and a student of the Liska Rebbe, signed his correspondence with: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who studied under the righteous Rebbe of Liska."


The Lisker Rebbe was renowned across many regions for his healing abilities. The Lisker Rebbe's reputation for healing drew many people from other countries to the village of Liska. There was a belief in the community that the rabbi's blessing and prayers could heal physical and mental suffering. Pilgrims continued to feel his presence and receive spiritual comfort at his grave long after his death.


The actions of the two caretakers at the Liska Jewish cemetery encompass more than grave maintenance; they serve as a tribute to respect and remembrance of 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. 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 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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