In September of last year, as the U.S. presidential election was reaching its climax, the Jewish Museum in Berlin opened an exhibit on the golem. Surprisingly, among the art and historical items on display, there was a baseball cap from the Trump campaign with the slogan “Make America Great Again.” The exhibit caption referenced a 2015 Canadian Broadcasting Corporation article that compared the then-candidate to a golem that had become uncontrollable and posed a threat to the entire universe.
Martina Lüdicke, one of the curators of the exhibit, explained that the inclusion of the Trump hat was meant to illustrate how each generation reimagines the golem based on the events of their time. In Jewish folklore, a golem is a powerful but unpredictable humanoid created from earth and brought to life through Kabbalistic magic. While the golem is often intended for good purposes or to protect the Jewish people, it ultimately goes out of control and must be destroyed.
The golem is a metaphor with a wide range of interpretations, representing different things such as war, community, isolation, hope, and despair. Its origins are rooted in the Hebrew word “galmi,” meaning an “unformed mass,” which is mentioned in Psalm 139:16. The concept of a golem as a artificially created being dates back to the Talmud, but the term gained popularity later on. Instructions for creating a golem can be found in a 13th-century manuscript by Rabbi Eleazer of Worms, and by the end of the century, summoning golems had become a common practice in Kabbalistic rituals.
Souvenir figurine of Prague golem.
Most golems were male, but there are accounts of she-golems as well, shedding light on gender roles of the time. Stories exist of golems created for various purposes, including domestic tasks and sexual relations. As the golem tradition evolved, it took on darker tones, with tales of golems turning against their creators or becoming dangerous entities. One of the most famous golem stories is about Rabbi Judah Loew of Prague, who created a golem to defend the Jewish community but ultimately had to destroy it when it became uncontrollable.
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Monsters often reflect the fears and anxieties of society, especially during times of turmoil. The golem, in particular, has been a recurring theme in literature and film, symbolizing different aspects of human nature and societal challenges. From postwar Germany to modern-day Israel, the golem continues to be a powerful and versatile metaphor.
As society grapples with issues of power, insecurity, and technology, the golem remains a relevant and compelling symbol. Whether portrayed as a friend or foe, the golem’s story resonates with artists and writers, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the struggles of the modern world.
Golem illustration by Philippe Semeria.
The golem’s story continues to evolve, reflecting the changing tides of society and the enduring relevance of its themes. As technology advances and new challenges arise, the golem remains a poignant symbol of human ambition, folly, and resilience.
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