“Charisma” originally referred to Christian eschatology but was transformed into a “value-neutral” term by Max Weber. Based on irrational personal attraction to and deification of a leader, it stands in radical contrast to rationality and tradition. In its primary aspect, charisma is revolutionary, but to survive it must be institutionalized, which eventually undermines its radical character and emotional power. Although charismatic relationships continue to inspire important modern political and religious movements, anthropological case studies of charisma remain rare.