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.
The Liska Jewish Cemetery stands as a unique testament to enduring 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. The first Lisker Rebbe, who lived a life marked by severe poverty, was deeply committed to religious teachings, charity, and miraculous interventions. He is celebrated for his many miracles, having healed the sick and helped many achieve prosperity through his blessings. The life of the wonderful rebbe had a great impact on the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities of that time. 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. Many international visitors migrated to Liska, coming in hopes of receiving healing from the Lisker Rebbe. The rabbi's blessings and prayers were thought to possess healing powers for both physical and mental suffering within the community. 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. At each grave, candles were lit, their gentle flames bowing in honor of the souls who once dwelled in this quaint village. Candles are seen as a symbolic link between past and present, with their flames shining from the heart of memory.
In Judaism, the candle flame serves as a powerful symbol with deep religious meaning. 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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