The Jewish History
The Jewish History of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr) and Rabbi Yeshayale of Kerestir
Bodrogkeresztúr (also known as "Kerestir" ), is a town in the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén county in northeastern Hungary. A significant Jewish community settled in this town, contributing greatly to both Hungarian and Jewish community life.
Initial Documentation:
The history of the Jews in the town of Kerestir begins in 1723, when seven Jewish families emigrated from Poland and settled in the town. Initially, they engaged mainly in agriculture but soon transitioned to wine trading. As the community grew, the Jews established their first synagogue and Jewish cemetery. In 1767, a Chevra Kadisha (burial society) was founded, and the community began to function in an organized manner.
Community Expansion:
In 1869, the Kerestir community joined the Orthodox movement, and by 1880, the town had 336 Jews. In 1885, Jews from nearby towns such as Bodrogkisfalud and Bodrogszegi joined the local Jewish community. By the early 20th century, Kerestir was a sought-after Hasidic community, surrounded by important Hasidic rabbis.
Rabbi Yeshaya Steiner - "Rabbi Yeshayale of Kerestir":
The central figure in the Jewish community of Kerestir was Rabbi Yeshaya Steiner, known as "Rabbi Yeshayale of Kerestir." His name spread far and wide due to his famous hospitality. He welcomed many Hasidim from all over Hungary and was known for his willingness to help everyone. Thousands flocked to him to receive blessings and prayers, and he helped many with their personal struggles.
Rabbi Yeshayale arrived in Kerestir after opposing the disputes that arose in Hungary following the death of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch of Liska. During his time, Kerestir became a significant Hasidic center, and Jews from Hungary flocked to it like a spiritual market. He personally served food to all the Hasidim who stayed in his home, and his house was filled with Jews who came to receive his blessings. The donation money he received was not kept for himself, but he gave it to the poor and orphans.
The Holocaust and the Hungarian Uprising:
On March 19, 1944, when Nazi Germany invaded Hungary, the persecution of Jews began. The Jews of Kerestir, along with the Jews of the region, were gathered into a local ghetto created around the synagogue and community buildings. After several days, they were transferred to the ghetto in the town of Sátoraljaújhely, and from there, on May 16-25, 1944, they were sent to the Auschwitz death camps. Rabbi Yeshayale tomb was damaged during this time, but after the Holocaust, the tent over his grave was rebuilt, and the tradition of hospitality and visits by Hasidim continued.
After the Holocaust:
After World War II ended, about 37 Jewish survivors returned to Kerestir and began to revive Jewish life. The tent over Rabbi Yeshayale’s grave was rebuilt by the refugees, and the Kerestir community began to rebuild itself, although the number of Jews in the town gradually dwindled over the years, especially after the Hungarian Uprising of 1956. The survivors, with the help of the Rubin family, descendants of Rabbi Yeshayale, continued the tradition of hospitality.
Today:
Today, Kerestir is a pilgrimage site, especially on the anniversary of Rabbi Yeshayale’s passing. The Rubin family, descendants of Rabbi Yeshayale, have maintained the tradition and host thousands of Jews who come to visit the grave, where they can receive food, drink, and lodging. The site serves as an important spiritual center for Hungarian Jews and Jews from around the world, and the anniversary of his passing is a special occasion observed every year.
Additionally, the path leading to the grave has been renovated through the initiative of Rabbi Yeshayale’s descendants, particularly Rabbi Shlomo Rieder, in cooperation with the Rubin family. The infrastructure has been improved, including the tent, and a women’s section has been added.
Over the years, the family has continued the tradition of hospitality in an organized manner. Rabbi Menachem Mendel Rubin, Rabbi Meir Yosef Rubin, and the Rubin family welcomed thousands of visitors each year.
R' Moshe Yosef Friedlander Hospitality:
One of the leaders in the matter of hospitality was Rabbi Moshe Yosef Friedlander, who established a hospitality house with the purpose of serving the thousands of Jews who came from all over the world to visit the grave of Rabbi Yeshayale. Rabbi Friedlander was known for his generosity and care for his followers, and he hosted hundreds of families over the years. The hospitality services became one of the hallmarks of the place, and over time, the site became a center for maintaining spirituality.
