Ep 5. Searching for the Dybbuk

In season 3, episode 5 of the hit show Curiosity, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the ancient Jewish legend of the dybbuk - a malevolent spirit that possesses and takes control of a living body. Dr. Michio Kaku, the show's host, takes us through the history of the dybbuk, its origins in Jewish folklore, and how this legend has inspired many works of art, including plays and films.

The episode begins by explaining that the dybbuk was originally believed to be a wandering soul that was unable to find peace after death. It would find a host body to possess and then refuse to leave, causing all kinds of havoc. Several stories and folktales were created around this legend, and people would often perform elaborate rituals to exorcise the spirit. Over time, the dybbuk has become a cultural symbol and metaphor for the human conscience.

Dr. Kaku visits several experts on the dybbuk legend, including rabbis, historians, and psychologists, to explore how it has influenced the Jewish culture and beyond. He also talks to members of the Hassidic Jewish community who still believe in the existence of the dybbuk to this day.

To further understand the dybbuk phenomenon, Dr. Kaku visits a haunted house. He experiences several anomalies, such as unexplainable noises and doors opening on their own. He also conducts an EVP (electronic voice phenomenon) session, hoping to capture the voice of the ghost. While nothing conclusive is found, the eerie atmosphere of the house adds to the mystery surrounding the legend.

In another part of the show, Dr. Kaku travels to Europe to visit a location where a famous dybbuk story unfolded. He investigates the historic aspects of the legendary tale, hoping to discover any hidden truths. Dr. Kaku even visits an ancient Jewish cemetery that is rumored to harbor the spirit of a deceased dybbuk.

Finally, Dr. Kaku meets a group of people who claim that they have experienced possession by the dybbuk. He listens to their stories, learns about the symptoms, and investigates their claims through scientific methods. By analyzing their behavior and interviewing them thoroughly, Dr. Kaku tries to get an insight into whether it's merely psychological or whether the spirits truly exist and can take over a person's body.

Overall, Curiosity's season 3 episode 5, Searching for the Dybbuk, is an excellently produced, intriguing documentary that explores one of Judaism's most chilling myths and its impact on popular culture. Dr. Kaku delivers an engaging narrative that is sure to capture viewers' attention and curiosity.