### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bilshân** `{{H1114}}`, an Israelite proper name of uncertain derivation, is found **2 times** in **2 unique verses** of the Bible. Its sole function is to identify a specific individual who played a role in the return of the exiles from Babylon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Bilshan** `{{H1114}}` is mentioned exclusively within census lists that record the leaders who returned from captivity. He is listed as one of the men who came `{{H935}}` with Zerubbabel `{{H2216}}` to re-establish the people `{{H5971}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}` in their land. His name appears in the nearly identical lists of returning leaders in both Ezra [[Ezra 2:2]] and Nehemiah [[Nehemiah 7:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other names and words appear in direct context with **Bilshan**, helping to establish his place in the historical record:
* `{{H2216}}` **Zᵉrubbâbel** (descended of (i.e. from) Babylon): He is the primary leader mentioned in the group with whom **Bilshan** returned ([[Ezra 2:2]], [[Nehemiah 7:7]]).
* `{{H3442}}` **Yêshûwaʻ** (he will save): A prominent Israelite leader who is also listed as having come `{{H935}}` with Zerubbabel and **Bilshan** [[Ezra 2:2]].
* `{{H5166}}` **Nᵉchemyâh** (consolation of Jah): Another key figure listed among the returning leaders alongside **Bilshan** ([[Ezra 2:2]], [[Nehemiah 7:7]]).
* `{{H4557}}` **miçpâr** (a number): This word introduces the census that follows the list of leaders, framing the context as an official "number of the men of the people of Israel" ([[Ezra 2:2]], [[Nehemiah 7:7]]).
### Theological Significance
While the name **Bilshan** itself does not carry explicit theological weight, his inclusion in these lists is significant for what it represents:
* **A Preserved Remnant:** The act of recording the "number `{{H4557}}` of the men `{{H582}}` of the people `{{H5971}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}`" underscores the theme of God's preservation of a remnant through exile.
* **Leadership in Restoration:** By being named among those who came `{{H935}}` with Zerubbabel `{{H2216}}`, **Bilshan** is identified as part of the foundational leadership responsible for rebuilding the community and the nation [[Ezra 2:2]].
* **Individual Identity:** The careful listing of names like **Bilshan** demonstrates the importance of each individual in the collective story of Israel's return and restoration.
### Summary
In summary, **Bilshan** `{{H1114}}` is an Israelite leader whose significance is tied to a pivotal moment in Israel's history. While his personal story is unknown, his name is permanently recorded as one of the key figures who came `{{H935}}` with Zerubbabel to lead the people of Israel back from Babylonian exile, marking the beginning of the nation's restoration.
TRV