The Romans had issued evil decrees against the Jewish people — banning Torah study, forbidding circumcision, outlawing the observance of the Sabbath. The sages were desperate. Someone had to go to Rome and persuade the authorities to rescind these crushing laws. But who could accomplish such a feat?
The Talmud (Meilah 17a) records that Rabbi Shimon bar Yohai was chosen for the mission, accompanied by Rabbi Elazar ben Yose. Their journey took them far from the Land of Israel, into the heart of the empire that sought to destroy their way of life.
Along the way, they encountered a demon named Ben Temalion — a spirit who offered them an unusual deal. "I will go ahead of you," the demon said, "and enter the emperor's daughter. When she becomes afflicted, they will summon healers from everywhere. When you arrive, say my name, and I will depart from her. She will be healed, and the emperor will grant you whatever you wish."
It happened exactly as Ben Temalion predicted. The demon entered the princess, and she was seized by madness. When Rabbi Shimon arrived at the palace, he whispered the demon's name: "Ben Temalion, leave. Ben Temalion, leave." The spirit departed, and the princess was restored to health.
The grateful emperor opened his treasure house and told Rabbi Shimon to take whatever he wished. The sage ignored the gold and silver. He found the scroll containing the evil decrees, took it, and tore it to pieces. The decrees were annulled. Israel could breathe again.