Topical Encyclopedia Hazarsusa, also referred to as Hazar-susah, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is found in the context of the tribal allotments given to the descendants of Simeon. The name "Hazarsusa" is derived from Hebrew, with "Hazar" meaning "village" or "settlement," and "Susa" possibly referring to "horse" or "swift," though the exact meaning remains uncertain.Biblical Reference: Hazarsusa is mentioned in the Book of Joshua, specifically in the listing of towns within the inheritance of the tribe of Simeon. The passage reads: "This was the inheritance of the tribe of the Simeonites, according to their clans. The inheritance of the Simeonites was taken from the portion of Judah, because the share of the Judahites was too large for them. So the Simeonites received an inheritance within the territory of Judah. Their inheritance included Beersheba (or Sheba), Moladah, Hazar-shual, Balah, Ezem, Eltolad, Bethul, Hormah, Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah, Beth-lebaoth, and Sharuhen—thirteen cities, along with their villages." (Joshua 19:1-6) Historical and Geographical Context: Hazarsusa is listed among the cities in the southern part of the land allocated to the tribe of Simeon. This allocation was within the larger territory of Judah, as the land initially given to Judah was too extensive for them alone. The Simeonites, therefore, received their inheritance within Judah's borders, which included Hazarsusa. The exact location of Hazarsusa is not definitively known today, and it is not prominently featured in other biblical narratives or historical records. It is one of several towns that illustrate the complex tribal arrangements and settlements during the period of the Israelite conquest and settlement of Canaan. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Hazarsusa, along with other towns, underscores the fulfillment of God's 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 faithfulness in providing for His people and establishing them in the Promised Land. The allocation of land to Simeon within Judah's territory also highlights the interconnectedness and unity among the tribes of Israel, despite their distinct inheritances. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly associated with Hazarsusa, the broader region of Simeon's inheritance has been the subject of archaeological interest. Excavations in the Negev and surrounding areas have provided insights into the settlement patterns, lifestyle, and challenges faced by the tribes of Israel during the early Iron Age. In summary, Hazarsusa serves as a historical marker within the biblical narrative, representing the detailed and divinely orchestrated distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. Its mention, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history as recorded in the Scriptures. 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/h/hazarsusa.htm - 6k Hazar-susa Ha'zar-shu'al (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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