Olaszliszka, or Liska as it is known among the local Jewish community, is a unique haven in Hungary that attracts tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish people every year.
The Liska Jewish Cemetery stands as a unique testament to enduring traditions and dedicated faith. The tomb of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, belovedly referred to as "Hershel Lisker" by the community, and the original site of Hasidism in Europe, is situated here. The first Lisker Rebbe, renowned for his profound humility despite his renowned poverty, lived a life devoted to teachings, charity, and miraculous aid. His name is linked with numerous miraculous events: the sick came to him for healing, and many prospered through his blessings. The remarkable rebbe’s life significantly impacted the contemporary Orthodox Jewish communities, leaving a lasting mark on their way of life. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe annually, with the yahrzeit taking place 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 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."
The reputation of the Lisker Rebbe for healing was known throughout various lands. Many people from other countries also migrated to the village of Liska and asked him to heal them. The community held a deep belief that the rabbi's blessings and prayers could alleviate physical and mental suffering. His grave remained a place where pilgrims reported feeling his enduring presence and receiving spiritual solace, even posthumously.
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. The flames of the candles are regarded as a conduit between the past and the present, their glow reflecting the depths of remembrance.
The candle's flame represents a deep and meaningful symbol within the Jewish religion. 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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