The Dibbouk Exhibition 2025. From September 26, 2024, to January 26, 2025, the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaïsme (MahJ) in Paris hosts an extraordinary exhibition titled “Le Dibbouk”. This captivating event delves into the haunting legend of the Dibbouk, a central figure in Jewish folklore, while celebrating its artistic and cultural legacy. The exhibition, enriched by paintings, films, and historical artifacts, is an unparalleled journey into the mystical and symbolic world of Jewish tradition.
What I liked about Le Dibbouk Exhibition in Paris?
- Important cultural & historical part of Judaism
- Extremely well documented, not crowded and quite cheap
- I went on a Wednesday morning at 11am and there was only 5 people there.
- What I liked about Le Dibbouk Exhibition in Paris?
- What Is a Dibbouk?
- The Dibbouk Exhibition at MahJ Paris
- A Cultural and Artistic Phenomenon
- Marc Chagall and the Spirit of the Dibbouk
- The Role of Music in the Dibbouk Legend
- The Link Between the Dibbouk and Broader Jewish Mysticism
- Practical Tips for Visiting the Dibbouk Exhibition Paris
What Is a Dibbouk?
The term Dibbouk originates from the Hebrew word dabaq, meaning “to cling” or “to attach.” In Jewish folklore, a Dibbouk is a restless spirit or soul of a deceased person that, unable to move on, attaches itself to the living. This possession often manifests in the victim’s erratic behavior, speech, or physical ailments.
The concept of the Dibbouk emerged during the 16th century in Eastern Europe, particularly within Kabbalistic traditions. It became a potent metaphor for unresolved grief, guilt, or spiritual imbalance. Rabbis or mystical leaders known as ba’alei shem were often called upon to perform exorcisms to free the possessed individual from the spirit’s grip.
The Dibbouk Exhibition at MahJ Paris
The Le Dibbouk exhibition explores this fascinating folklore through various lenses: literature, theater, cinema, and visual art. It brings together a wide array of artifacts, including the following 3 main one.
1- Historical Manuscripts
Rare Kabbalistic texts and religious documents that provide insight into the origins and interpretations of the Dibbouk myth.
2- Film Memorabilia
Items from the iconic 1937 Yiddish film The Dybbuk, directed by Michał Waszyński, which popularized the legend worldwide.
3- Marc Chagall’s Paintings
The exhibition features several works by Marc Chagall, whose dreamlike, mystical art served as inspiration for the film. Chagall’s depictions of Jewish life, folklore, and spirituality perfectly align with the ethereal themes of the Dibbouk.

The Dibbouk Exhibition Paris 2025
A Cultural and Artistic Phenomenon
The Dibbouk legend gained prominence in modern culture through S. Ansky’s play The Dybbuk, or Between Two Worlds, written in 1914. The play tells the tragic story of a young bride possessed by the spirit of her deceased lover on the eve of her wedding. This poignant tale of love, loss, and the supernatural resonated deeply with audiences and was adapted into the aforementioned 1937 film.
The MahJ exhibition showcases the enduring influence of The Dybbuk on Jewish and global culture. Visitors can explore how the legend has inspired not only theater and film but also literature, music, and visual arts.

The Dibbouk Exhibition Paris 2025
Marc Chagall and the Spirit of the Dibbouk
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the inclusion of Marc Chagall’s paintings, which capture the mystical essence of Jewish folklore. Chagall’s works often depict floating figures, dreamlike villages, and celestial beings, echoing the themes of spirituality and otherworldliness found in the Dibbouk legend.
Chagall’s art also reflects the cultural milieu of Eastern European Jewish communities, where stories of spirits, angels, and demons were interwoven with daily life. His pieces, filled with vibrant colors and surreal imagery, provide a visual counterpart to the haunting narrative of the Dibbouk.

The Dibbouk Exhibition Paris 2025
The Role of Music in the Dibbouk Legend
Music plays a vital role in the Dibbouk story, particularly in the 1937 film. The exhibition highlights the film’s haunting score, which combines traditional Jewish melodies with dramatic orchestration to evoke the tension and mysticism of the narrative.
Visitors can also learn about the connection between the Dibbouk and other Jewish musical traditions, such as Klezmer and liturgical music. These genres often incorporate minor scales and plaintive tones, mirroring the emotional depth and spiritual longing central to the Dibbouk legend.

The Dibbouk Exhibition Paris 2025
The Link Between the Dibbouk and Broader Jewish Mysticism
The Dibbouk is not an isolated phenomenon but part of a broader tapestry of Jewish mystical beliefs. The exhibition delves into Kabbalah, the esoteric tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the soul, and the universe. Within Kabbalistic thought, the Dibbouk represents a disruption in the cosmic order, a soul that has lost its way and needs guidance to find peace.
This mystical context adds layers of meaning to the Dibbouk story, transforming it from a simple ghost tale into a profound exploration of human emotions and spiritual struggles.

The Dibbouk Exhibition Paris 2025
Practical Tips for Visiting the Dibbouk Exhibition Paris
While the Le Dibbouk exhibition is a must-see, it’s worth noting that the popularity of the event has led to large crowds, especially on weekends. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:
- Visit on Weekdays: The exhibition is significantly less crowded during weekday afternoons, allowing you to explore the displays at your leisure.
- Plan Ahead: Tickets can sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance through the MahJ website.
- Take Your Time: With so much to see, from rare manuscripts to Chagall’s masterpieces, allocate at least two hours for your visit.
- Explore the Museum: While at the MahJ, take the opportunity to explore its permanent collection, which offers a rich overview of Jewish art, history, and culture.

The Dibbouk Exhibition Paris 2025 – Captured by Maura Photography