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
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 special location where deep-seated traditions and committed faith are preserved. 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 extraordinary life of the rebbe profoundly affected the present-day Orthodox Jewish communities, influencing their traditions and daily practices. 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 reputation of the Lisker Rebbe for healing was known throughout various lands. The Lisker Rebbe's reputation for healing drew many people from other countries to the village of Liska. There was a strong conviction within the community that the rabbi's prayers and blessings had the ability to cure physical and emotional distress. Pilgrims continued to feel his presence and receive spiritual comfort at his grave long after his death.
The caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery performed a duty that not only preserves the graves but also upholds respect and remembrance for historical heritage. Candles were lit at each grave, the flames of which bowed before the souls of those who once lived in this small village. Viewed as a bridge between bygone days and the present, the candle flames illuminate from the core of collective memory.
The flame of candles is a deep symbol of the Jewish religion. Beyond providing light, the flames serve as a portal to the realm of 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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