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BulanKhazar commander, founder of the dynasty of Khazar kings
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Dive |
Content:
- Bulat: The Founder of Khazar Dynasty
- Conversion to Judaism
- Victorious Conquest and Temple Construction
- Interfaith Debate and Religious Affiliation
- Divergent Chronologies and Interpretations
Bulat: The Founder of Khazar Dynasty
The Khazar LineageBulat, a prominent Khazar general, established the lineage of Khazar monarchs. Although official accounts credit Bulat as the ruler of Khazaria, historical evidence points to his descendant Obadiah as the first in the royal line, aligning with independent sources indicating that a pagan dynasty held power until the late 8th century. Bulat may have held a position of authority among Khazar princes.
Conversion to Judaism
Bulat's role as an advocate for Judaism is well-known. According to legend, an angel visited him in a dream, urging him to convert his subjects. Bulat consulted with Khazar nobles and the "nation," who endorsed his decision. He notably received support from a senior Khazar prince, often identified as the Khagan.
Victorious Conquest and Temple Construction
Following his conversion, Bulat led a triumphant campaign against Ardebil in Iran in 730. With the spoils of the conquest, he commissioned a rudimentary temple featuring an altar, a sacrificial table, and lamps, reflecting a primitive form of Judaism without Talmudist influence or synagogues.
Interfaith Debate and Religious Affiliation
Upon learning of the Khazar conversion, the Byzantine and Caliphate rulers dispatched missionaries. Bulat hosted a debate between a Christian priest and a Muslim cleric. Through skillful questioning, he exposed the superiority of Judaism over both Christianity and Islam. Some historians speculate that he adopted the Hebrew name Sabriel.
Divergent Chronologies and Interpretations
The timing of Bulat's reign has been subject to debate among historians. Alexei Novoseltsev proposed a date in the early 11th century, while Constantine Zuckerman placed it in the 860s, based on the dating of the Khazar conversion to Judaism.
