Olaszliszka, or Liska, as the local Jewish community calls it, is a magical hideaway in Hungary, where tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish peoples come every year.
Liska Jewish Cemetery is a distinctive site for honoring traditions and unwavering faith. Here lies the sacred resting place of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, affectionately called "Hershel Lisker" by the community, marking the birthplace 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. Even today, tens of thousands of pilgrims make their way to visit the rebbe each year, with the yahrzeit observed on the 14th of Av.
Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman’s leadership and the Liska Hasidic dynasty’s endeavors greatly facilitated the dissemination of Hasidism in Hungary and around the world. The Kerestir Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner, a student of the Liska Rebbe, signed his letters as: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who learned from the righteous Rebbe of Liska."
The reputation of the Lisker Rebbe for healing was known throughout various lands. 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. Visitors to his grave still reported experiencing his spiritual influence and comfort, even after he had passed away.
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. Each grave was marked by a candle, its flame bowing respectfully to the spirits of those who once called this small village home. Viewed as a bridge between bygone days and the present, the candle flames illuminate from the core of collective memory.
The flame of candles is a profound emblem in Jewish tradition, rich with spiritual significance. The flames not only shine but also unlock a passage 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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