Bishlam is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Ezra, as one of the adversaries who opposed the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem during the post-exilic period. His actions are emblematic of the broader opposition faced by the Jewish exiles returning from Babylonian captivity as they sought to restore their religious and communal life in Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

Bishlam is mentioned in Ezra 4:7, which states: "And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes king of Persia. The letter was written in Aramaic and translated."

Historical Context:

The context of Bishlam's opposition is set during the reign of Artaxerxes I of Persia, a time when the Jewish exiles, led by figures such as Zerubbabel and later Ezra and Nehemiah, were attempting to rebuild the Temple and reestablish Jerusalem as the center of Jewish worship and identity. This period was marked by significant political and social challenges, as the returning exiles encountered resistance from the local populations, including the Samaritans.

Role and Actions:

Bishlam, along with his associates Mithredath and Tabeel, is noted for his role in obstructing the rebuilding efforts. The letter they sent to King Artaxerxes was part of a concerted effort to halt the construction by raising suspicions about the intentions of the Jewish people. The letter accused the Jews of planning to rebel against Persian authority, a claim that played on the fears of the Persian administration regarding the stability of their empire.

The opposition led by Bishlam and his associates was temporarily successful, as it resulted in a royal decree that ordered the cessation of the rebuilding activities. This interruption lasted until the second year of the reign of Darius the Great, when the work on the Temple resumed under the prophetic encouragement of Haggai and Zechariah.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Bishlam's opposition can be seen as part of the recurring theme of conflict between the people of God and those who oppose His purposes. The resistance faced by the Jewish exiles serves as a reminder of the spiritual and physical challenges that often accompany the fulfillment of God's promises. Despite the opposition, the eventual completion of the Temple underscores the sovereignty of God and His faithfulness to His covenant people.

Legacy:

Bishlam's actions are a testament to the complex interplay of political, social, and religious factors in the post-exilic period. His opposition is a historical example of the broader enmity between the Samaritans and the Jews, which persisted into the New Testament era. The account of Bishlam and his associates serves as a narrative of perseverance and divine intervention, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in the face of adversity.Ezra 4:7-24
And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions, to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue.
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