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.
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.
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).
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.
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