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
The local Jewish community calls it Liska, but Olaszliszka in Hungary is a captivating hideaway that draws tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish individuals each year.
The Liska Jewish Cemetery stands as a unique testament to enduring 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, 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 remarkable rebbe’s life significantly impacted the contemporary Orthodox Jewish communities, leaving a lasting mark on their way of life. Annually, tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe, and the yahrzeit is commemorated 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. 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”
The Lisker Rebbe earned widespread acclaim for his extraordinary talent in healing. Individuals from different nations also made their way to Liska, requesting healing from the esteemed Lisker Rebbe. In the community, it was widely believed that the rabbi's blessings and prayers had the power to heal both physical and mental ailments. 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 set alight at each grave, their flames bowing in homage to the departed souls of this once vibrant village. The candle's light is considered a bridge linking past and present, glowing with the warmth of memories from deep within.
The flame of candles is a profound emblem in Jewish tradition, rich with spiritual significance. 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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