Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Hazarsusah, sometimes spelled Hazar-susah, is a name found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. The name is of Hebrew origin, and it is generally understood to mean "village of horses" or "enclosure of horses." The etymology reflects the Hebrew words "Hazar," meaning "village" or "enclosure," and "Susah," meaning "horses." Biblical References Hazarsusah is mentioned in the context of the territorial allotments to the tribes of Israel following their conquest of Canaan. It appears in the list of towns within the inheritance of the tribe of Simeon. The specific reference is found in Joshua 19:5: "The territory of 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 19:2-6) Historical and Geographical Context Hazarsusah 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 suitable for pastoral activities, including the raising of livestock. The mention of "horses" in the name suggests that the area may have been known for horse breeding or had facilities related to horses, which were valuable assets in ancient times for transportation and warfare. Tribal Significance The tribe of Simeon, to which Hazarsusah was allotted, was one of the smaller tribes of Israel. Their inheritance was situated within the larger territory of Judah, as Simeon did not receive a separate, distinct region. This arrangement is noted in Joshua 19:9: "The inheritance of the Simeonites was taken from the portion of Judah, because Judah’s portion was too large for them. So the Simeonites received an inheritance within the territory of Judah." (Joshua 19:9) Cultural and Theological Insights The inclusion of Hazarsusah in the biblical record underscores the detailed nature of the territorial divisions among the tribes of Israel, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The allocation of land was a significant aspect of Israel's identity and covenant relationship with God, as it represented the tangible realization of the Promised Land. The mention of horses in the name Hazarsusah may also carry symbolic significance. In biblical literature, horses are often associated with strength, power, and military might. However, the Israelites were frequently reminded to place their trust in God rather than in military capabilities or alliances. This is echoed in passages such as Psalm 20:7: "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." (Psalm 20:7) Archaeological Considerations While specific archaeological evidence for Hazarsusah has not been definitively identified, the general region of the Negev has yielded numerous findings that illuminate the lifestyle and settlements of ancient Israel. These discoveries contribute to our understanding of the historical and cultural context in which biblical events unfolded. Conclusion Hazarsusah serves as a testament to the intricate and divinely orchestrated distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. Its mention in the biblical narrative highlights the importance of each location, no matter how seemingly obscure, in the unfolding account of God's people. Easton's Bible Dictionary Village of the horse, the same as Sansannah, one of Solomon's "chariot cities" (Joshua 15:31; 2 Chronicles 1:14), a depot in the south border of Judah. Thesaurus Hazarsusah (1 Occurrence)... border of Judah. Multi-Version Concordance Hazarsusah (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:5 And Ziklag, and Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusah, (KJV). ... /h/hazarsusah.htm - 6k Bethmarcaboth (2 Occurrences) Sansannah (1 Occurrence) Hazar-susah (1 Occurrence) Hazar-susa Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hazarsusah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:5 Subtopics Related Terms Beth-marcaboth (2 Occurrences) |
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