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
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.
At Liska Jewish Cemetery, traditions and devoted faith find a unique and sacred place. Located here is the holy grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, or "Hershel Lisker" as he is known within the community, the first center of Hasidism in Europe. Despite his well-known poverty, the first Lisker Rebbe's life was a testament to his dedication to spiritual teachings, charitable deeds, and miraculous help. His name is associated with numerous miracles, including healing the ill and blessing many towards prosperity. The extraordinary life of the rebbe profoundly affected the present-day Orthodox Jewish communities, influencing their traditions and daily practices. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe every year even today. Yahrazeit: Av. 14.
The influence of Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the activities of the Liska Hasidic dynasty were instrumental in spreading Hasidism throughout Hungary and beyond. 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 was renowned across many regions for his healing abilities. 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. His grave remained a place where pilgrims reported feeling his enduring presence and receiving spiritual solace, even posthumously.
The caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery engage in work that honors not just the graves, but also the broader legacy of respect and historical remembrance. 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 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
kosher accomodation Report this page