of foreign derivation; Bishlam, a Persian; Bishlam.
Transliteration:Bishlâm
Pronunciation:bish-lawm'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בִּשְׁלָם (Bishlâm), identified by Strong's H1312, is a proper noun referring to a specific individual. Its base definition indicates it is "of foreign derivation," specifically identifying Bishlam as a Persian. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to denoting this particular person. Unlike common nouns or verbs, it does not possess a broad spectrum of meanings or applications beyond its role as an identifier. Its core meaning is simply the name itself, pointing to a non-Israelite individual involved in the historical events recorded in the book of Ezra. The foreign origin is a crucial aspect of its identity within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Bishlam (בִּשְׁלָם, `{{H1312}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Ezra 4:7]]. This singular occurrence places him within a specific historical and political context during the post-exilic period. The verse reads: "And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their associates wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the letter was written in Aramaic and translated."
The context of [[Ezra 4]] details the opposition faced by the returning Jewish exiles as they sought to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem and the city walls. Bishlam is listed as one of the individuals who actively opposed this work. He is part of a coalition of adversaries, including other named figures like Mithredath and Tabeel, who composed a letter to the Persian king Artaxerxes. This letter was intended to slander the Jews and halt their construction efforts, portraying them as rebellious and dangerous to the Persian empire. Bishlam's inclusion among these figures underscores his role as an antagonist to God's people and His redemptive purposes in that era. His Persian identity further highlights the external, Gentile opposition to the restoration of Judah.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that Bishlam (`{{H1312}}`) is a proper noun, direct lexical relations in terms of synonyms or antonyms are not applicable. However, his role in the biblical narrative connects him to several significant concepts and related figures:
* **Adversaries/Opponents:** Bishlam is intrinsically linked to the concept of opposition to God's people and their divinely appointed tasks. He stands with those who actively sought to frustrate the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple. This theme is pervasive throughout the post-exilic books, notably Ezra and Nehemiah.
* **Foreign Powers:** As a Persian, Bishlam represents the influence and authority of the foreign empire that ruled over Judah at the time. His presence highlights the tension between the returning exiles and the dominant political powers, which were often hostile or indifferent to their spiritual aspirations.
* **Co-conspirators:** He is mentioned alongside other specific individuals like Mithredath and Tabeel, and more generally "the rest of their associates." This group dynamic emphasizes a concerted effort to undermine the Jewish community. Other figures in [[Ezra 4]], such as Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe, are also part of this network of opposition.
* **Resistance to Divine Will:** The actions of Bishlam and his associates represent a human attempt to thwart God's declared will for His people to return and rebuild. This concept is a recurring motif in biblical history, where human plans and political machinations often stand in defiance of divine providence.
### Theological Significance
Though mentioned only once, the figure of Bishlam (`{{H1312}}`) carries theological significance primarily through his role as an opponent to God's redemptive work.
* **The Reality of Opposition:** Bishlam's presence in [[Ezra 4:7]] serves as a stark reminder that God's people, when engaged in His work, will inevitably face opposition. This resistance often comes from external, powerful, and seemingly insurmountable sources, as represented by the Persian administration.
* **Sovereignty Amidst Adversity:** Despite the concerted efforts of Bishlam and his associates to halt the temple's reconstruction, God's ultimate plan prevailed. The narrative of Ezra demonstrates that while human opposition can cause delays and difficulties, it cannot ultimately thwart the divine will. This reinforces God's sovereignty over all human affairs, including the machinations of those who oppose Him.
* **Perseverance of God's People:** The existence of figures like Bishlam underscores the necessity for perseverance and faith among God's people. The Jews faced significant discouragement and political pressure, but their continued efforts, guided by prophets like Haggai and Zechariah, ultimately led to the completion of the temple.
* **The Spiritual Dimension of Conflict:** While Bishlam's opposition is presented through political and administrative means, it implicitly points to a deeper spiritual conflict. The rebuilding of the temple was not merely a construction project but a restoration of Israel's covenant relationship with God. Those who opposed it were, wittingly or unwittingly, opposing God's purposes.
### Summary
Bishlam (בִּשְׁלָם, `{{H1312}}`) is a Persian individual mentioned only once in the biblical text, specifically in [[Ezra 4:7]]. As a proper noun of foreign derivation, his meaning is limited to his identity as a person. His sole appearance places him as part of a group of adversaries who wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes, seeking to hinder the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem by the returning Jewish exiles. His role highlights the persistent opposition faced by God's people during times of restoration and obedience. Theologically, Bishlam's inclusion serves to underscore the reality of external resistance to divine plans, the ultimate sovereignty of God over human machinations, and the call for perseverance among those who commit to His work.
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