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.
Liska Jewish Cemetery is a unique place for traditions and dedicated 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. The first Lisker Rebbe, who lived a life marked by severe poverty, was deeply committed to religious teachings, charity, and miraculous interventions. He is celebrated for his many miracles, having healed the sick and helped many achieve prosperity through his blessings. The rebbe’s impactful life played a crucial role in shaping the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities during his time. Every year, tens of thousands of pilgrims journey to honor the rebbe, particularly during the yahrzeit 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 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 reputation of the Lisker Rebbe for healing was known throughout various lands. People from various countries also traveled to the village of Liska, seeking the Lisker Rebbe's healing expertise. There was a strong conviction within the community that the rabbi's prayers and blessings had the ability to cure physical and emotional distress. 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. Viewed as a bridge between bygone days and the present, the candle flames illuminate from the core of collective 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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