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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Olaszliszka, affectionately referred to as Liska by the local Jewish community, is a picturesque retreat in Hungary that draws tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish visitors annually.


This cemetery in Liska serves as a unique sanctuary for upholding cherished traditions and steadfast faith. The revered grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, known to the community as "Hershel Lisker," and the original home of Hasidism in Europe, can be found 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 life of the esteemed rebbe had a profound influence on the Orthodox Jewish communities of his time, shaping their present and practices. The rebbe continues to attract tens of thousands of pilgrims each year, with the yahrzeit celebrated 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 disciple, the Kerestir Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner, also known as Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir, often signed his correspondence with the phrase: "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. 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. Despite his death, numerous pilgrims who visited his grave claimed to experience a sense of his continued presence.


By tending to the Liska Jewish cemetery, the two caretakers have not only managed the graves but also carried forward the values of respect and historical memory. 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.


The flame of candles is a deep symbol of the Jewish religion. The light of the flames extends beyond mere illumination, offering access 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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