The Hungarian village of Olaszliszka, or Liska as it is known to the local Jewish community, is a magical retreat that welcomes tens of thousands of Orthodox Jews annually.

Every year, tens of thousands of Orthodox Jews visit Olaszliszka, or Liska as the local Jewish community names it, a charming hideaway in Hungary.

The Liska Jewish Cemetery stands out as a unique sanctuary for tradition and unwavering faith. Here lies the revered grave of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, or "Hershel Lisker" as the community calls him, who established the first Hasidic home in Europe. Even in the face of his notable poverty, the first Lisker Rebbe’s life was a testament to the spirit of teachings, charitable deeds, and miraculous support. Countless miraculous deeds are attributed to him: the famous rebbe cured the ill and granted prosperity to many through his blessings. The life of the wonderful rebbe had a great impact on the present of the Orthodox Jewish communities of that time. Every year, tens of thousands of pilgrims come to see the rebbe, with the yahrzeit on the 14th of Av being a particularly significant time.

The activities of Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the Liska Hasidic dynasty significantly advanced the spread of Hasidism throughout Hungary and beyond. The Kerestir Rebbe, Yeshaya Steiner (widely known as Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir), used this signature style in his correspondence:„Yeshaya son of R. Moshe, who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska”

The healing prowess of the Lisker Rebbe was well-known and respected throughout various lands. People from various countries also moved to the village of Liska, seeking his healing touch. The community held a belief that the rabbi's blessings and prayers had the power to alleviate both physical and mental suffering.Even after his death, several pilgrims who came to his grave experienced his survival.

The efforts of the two caretakers at the Liska Jewish cemetery represented more than just the maintenance of graves; they embodied respect and a tribute to historical memory. Candles were lit at each grave, their flames bending in reverence to the souls of those who once resided in this small village. These candles’ flames are regarded as a conduit between history and the present, shining with the light of deep-seated memories.

The candle flame is a powerful symbol with deep roots in Jewish religious practice. The flames serve as more than just a beacon; they open a gateway 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

In 2024, we are living the 80th anniversary of the Holocaust. The solemn lights burning in the Jewish cemetery of Liska not only honor individual graves but also evoke an entire era and the fate of a whole people. The candle flames not only honor the memory of the graves but also preserve the stories of untold lives and unformed families. Through their glow, these flames evoke the suffering of the Holocaust, serving as a poignant reminder that every life cut short is a loss shared by all. 

The combined presence of the candle flames and the legacy of the Liska Rebbe serves as a testament to the eternal nature of remembrance. The next similar commemoration: before the yarhzeit of Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir on Thursday (2024-05-09) at sunset.