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.
This cemetery in Liska serves as a unique sanctuary for upholding cherished traditions and steadfast 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. Although the first Lisker Rebbe was famously impoverished, he lived a life rich in teachings, charity, and miraculous support. He is remembered for countless miracles, having healed the sick and bestowed prosperity upon many through his blessings. 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.
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 community firmly believed that the rabbi's blessings and prayers could effectively address and heal both physical and psychological suffering. 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.
The flame of candles holds profound symbolic significance in the Jewish faith. 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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