Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Hazar-Susa is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is listed among the cities in the territory allotted to the tribe of Simeon. The reference can be found in Joshua 19:5: "Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah." Etymology and Meaning: The name "Hazar-Susa" is derived from Hebrew, where "Hazar" means "village" or "enclosure," and "Susa" is often associated with "horses." Thus, Hazar-Susa can be interpreted as "village of horses" or "enclosure of horses," suggesting a place that may have been known for horse breeding or stabling. Geographical Context: Hazar-Susa was located in the southern part of the land of Canaan, within the Negev region. This area was characterized by its arid climate and was part of the inheritance given to the tribe of Simeon. The Negev was a semi-desert region, which made it suitable for pastoral activities, including the raising of livestock such as horses. Historical and Cultural Significance: The mention of Hazar-Susa in the context of the Simeonite inheritance highlights the tribal allotments that were part of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. The Simeonites, being one of the smaller tribes, received their inheritance within the larger territory of Judah, as described in Joshua 19:1-9. This arrangement reflects the close relationship between the tribes and the practical considerations of land distribution based on population and needs. The reference to horses in the name suggests that Hazar-Susa may have been a center for horse-related activities. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, horses were valuable for transportation, warfare, and trade. The presence of a "village of horses" would have been significant for the economic and military capabilities of the tribe of Simeon. Theological Implications: The allocation of Hazar-Susa to the tribe of Simeon is part of the broader narrative of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land among the tribes of Israel is a testament to God's covenant with His people, providing them with a homeland where they could live according to His laws and worship Him. The inclusion of Hazar-Susa in the biblical record, though brief, serves as a reminder of the detailed and specific nature of God's provision. Each city and village mentioned in the tribal allotments underscores the historical reality of the Israelites' settlement in Canaan and the divine orchestration of their inheritance. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence for Hazar-Susa is limited, the general region of the Negev has yielded numerous findings that illuminate the lifestyle and activities of its ancient inhabitants. Excavations in the area have uncovered remains of settlements, fortifications, and artifacts that provide context for understanding the environment in which Hazar-Susa existed. Conclusion: Hazar-Susa, as a part of the Simeonite inheritance, represents a small yet significant piece of the larger tapestry of Israel's history in the Promised Land. Its mention in the biblical text serves as a testament to the detailed fulfillment of God's promises and the practical realities of life in ancient Israel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAZAR-ADDAR; HAZAR-ENAN; HAZAR-GADDAH; HAZAR-HATTICON; HAZAR-MAVETH; HAZAR-SHUAL; HAZAR-SUSA; HAZAR-SUSIMad'-ar; e'-nan; gad'-a; hat'-i-kon; ma'-veth; shoo'-al; su'-sa; su'-sim. Thesaurus Hazarsusa... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAZAR-ADDAR; HAZAR-ENAN; HAZAR-GADDAH; HAZAR-HATTICON; HAZAR-MAVETH; HAZAR-SHUAL; HAZAR-SUSA; HAZAR-SUSIM. ... /h/hazarsusa.htm - 6k Hazar-susa Hazar-susim (1 Occurrence) Hazarsusim (1 Occurrence) Hazarsusah (1 Occurrence) Ha'zar-shu'al (2 Occurrences) Hazar-shual (4 Occurrences) Hazaraddar Hazarshual (4 Occurrences) Hazar-addar Resources Who was Mordecai in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Vashti in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Did Esther have sex with Xerxes before they were married? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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