Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name Ha'zar-su'sim is derived from Hebrew origins, with "Ha'zar" meaning "village" or "settlement," and "su'sim" meaning "horses." Thus, Ha'zar-su'sim can be translated as "village of horses" or "settlement of horses." This name suggests a location associated with horses, possibly indicating a place where horses were bred, kept, or traded. Biblical References: Ha'zar-su'sim is mentioned in the Old Testament in the context of the tribal allotments of the land of Canaan. It appears in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. Specifically, Ha'zar-su'sim is listed as one of the towns within the territory allotted to the tribe of Simeon. · Joshua 19:5 : "Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah." In this passage, Ha'zar-su'sim is referred to as "Hazar-susah," which is a variant of the name. It is grouped with other towns that were part of the inheritance of the Simeonites. The mention of Ha'zar-su'sim in this context highlights its significance as part of the divinely ordained distribution of land among the tribes of Israel. Historical and Geographical Context: The exact location of Ha'zar-su'sim is not definitively known today, as it is with many ancient biblical sites. However, it is understood to have been situated in the southern part of the land of Canaan, within the Negev region. This area was characterized by its arid climate and was suitable for pastoral activities, which may explain the association with horses. The tribe of Simeon, to which Ha'zar-su'sim was allotted, was one of the smaller tribes of Israel. Their territory was located within the larger inheritance of the tribe of Judah, as described in the Book of Joshua. This arrangement reflects the close relationship between the tribes and the practical considerations of land distribution based on population and needs. Cultural and Theological Significance: The mention of Ha'zar-su'sim in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of land and inheritance in the covenant relationship between God and the people of Israel. Each town and village, including Ha'zar-su'sim, was part of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants the land of Canaan. The reference to horses in the name Ha'zar-su'sim may also hold cultural significance. Horses were valuable animals in ancient times, used for transportation, agriculture, and warfare. The presence of a "village of horses" within the territory of Simeon could indicate a center for equine activity, contributing to the tribe's economy and military capabilities. Conclusion: Ha'zar-su'sim, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, is a testament to the detailed record of Israel's tribal inheritances and the fulfillment of God's promises. Its name and location provide insights into the life and culture of the ancient Israelites, reflecting the practical and spiritual dimensions of their existence in the Promised Land. Concordance Ha'zar-su'sim (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 4:31 Thesaurus Ha'zar-su'sim (1 Occurrence)Ha'zar-su'sim. Hazar-susim, Ha'zar-su'sim. Hazazon . Multi-Version Concordance Ha'zar-su'sim (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:31 and ... /h/ha'zar-su'sim.htm - 6k Hazar-susim (1 Occurrence) Hazazon (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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