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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In Hungary, Olaszliszka—referred to as Liska by the local Jewish community—is a delightful sanctuary that sees tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish visitors annually.


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. Although the first Lisker Rebbe was famously impoverished, he lived a life rich in teachings, charity, and miraculous support. He is remembered for countless miracles, having healed the sick and bestowed prosperity upon many through his blessings. The remarkable rebbe’s life significantly impacted the contemporary Orthodox Jewish communities, leaving a lasting mark on their way of life. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe annually, with the yahrzeit taking place on the 14th of Av.


Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the Liska Hasidic dynasty significantly contributed to the growth of Hasidism in Hungary and worldwide. 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”


Known far and wide, the Lisker Rebbe gained fame for his remarkable healing powers. The Lisker Rebbe's reputation for healing drew many people from other countries to the village of Liska. The community firmly believed that the rabbi's blessings and prayers could effectively address and heal both physical and psychological suffering. Even after his passing, many pilgrims visiting his grave reported experiencing his spiritual presence.


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. Each grave was marked by a candle, its flame bowing respectfully to the spirits of those who once called this small village home. 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.


Within the Jewish religion, the candle flame is a deeply symbolic element, reflecting important spiritual truths. The flames do more than illuminate; they also open 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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