Lift Numbers in Metropolis

 Religious Significance Behind the Numbers 

Upon watching Metropolis, I was curious about the numbers on the lifts and whether they had any religious meaning, which they did. 

At the start of Metropolis, the workers are seen entering a lift, in a robotic manner, with the number 219 at the top. Strongs's #219 means luminousness, prosperity, light of joy and happiness. This could be seen as ironic due to the workers lives being in a never-ending cycle of misery. Living in a 'hellscape'. It could also be foreshadowing the union at the end of the film where the classes come together suggesting that there is hope the workers are finally free. 

As the workers enter the lifts to rebel against the machines and Joh Fredersen, the numbers 125 appear on the lift. Strongs's #125 means uncertain derivation. This could be to show that they have been brainwashed by Robot Maria to rebel which resulted in them destroying themselves and nearly killing their children. They were unsure of where the idea came from but were overcome with anger against Joh Fredersen to think about the possible consequences from their actions.  

125 also can be referring perhaps to Psalm 125 which is a song that assures those who trust in God that they will be steadfast and protected for all eternity. It also warns sinners that their crooked ways will not be forgotten or unpunished by the Lord. This could be suggesting that Metropolis could have a cyclical narrative as those who rebelled against Joh Fredersen, who is the God of Metropolis, will be punished. Perhaps by being forced to mend Metropolis which in now destroyed. Also suggests the elite classes wealth will be protected. However. this could also be suggesting that the workers will be reunited with God (Joh Fredersen) through Freder and Marxism will protect them. Rotwang who sinned against Joh Fredersen will be punished. Which did happen when Rotwang was killed by Freder.   

As Robot Maria and the Workers rush into the lifts the main lift that Robot Maria gets into is numbered 326. Strongs's #326 means to recover life, live again, to revive, regain strength and vigour. The workers are on their way to destroy the Heart Machine which they believe will enable them to break free from their controlled lives and enjoy what they have worked so hard to build. The reason behind the rebellion was to be able to live and be happy. Lang message in the film was this was Marxism. 

Lastly, we seen the numbers 717 on the lift Maria takes down into the depths on Metropolis. Strongs's #717 means Armageddon: completely destructive battle. This could be foreshadowing the destruction of the city as it floods which follows shortly after.