Made from the earth and animated by spiritual knowledge, the golem serves its creator and protects the Jewish people...for a time. From Rabbinic writings to "The X-Files", from Kabbalistic teachings to "The Terminator", we’ll explore how this dynamic figure continues to shape Jewish (and Western) art and fiction.
Each of the three sessions will utilize text and media clips to explore a different aspect of the golem's story. Source-sheets (and a brief synopsis of preceding classes) will be offered in each session.
This Session: The golem's original calling was to protect the Jewish people. Sometimes, however, that task ran awry... In this session, we'll delve into materials from the modern period that explore how the golem's mission was expanded (and diverted) as it became a danger even to its creator.
Recommended reading includes:
NON-FICTION
Golem: Jewish Magical and Mystical Traditions on the Artificial Anthropoid (Moshe Idel)
The Golem Redux: From Prague to Post-Holocaust Fiction (Elizabeth Baer)
FICTION
The Golem (Gustav Meyrink, Mitchell translation)
He, She and It (Marge Piercy)
The Golem and the Djinni (Helene Wecker)
Session 1: The Golem Created, June 2
Together, we'll explore Rabbinic and Kabbalistic texts on crafting a golem. What are the powers (and limitations) of this awesome figure? How did this Jewish legend begin to influence European storytelling?
Session 3: The Golem Redeemed, June 30
In recent years, the golem has become a staple of speculative fiction. Our final conversation will explore how the golem has come to offer us insights into interpersonal relationships, spiritual quests and personal growth.
About Rabbi Josh Breindel
Rabbi Josh Breindel is honored to return to Lehrhaus. Serving as the rabbi of Congregation Beth El of the Sudbury River Valley, he holds Masters degrees in Jewish Studies and Jewish Education from Hebrew College, where he was ordained. As “The Rabbi on the Radio”, he offers weekly reflections and music on Chagigah (WERS). As “The Sci-Fi Rabbi”, he blends ancient Jewish thought with modern speculative fiction in sermons, articles, and an open Jewish F&SF book group at Beth El.