Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Ha'zar-su'sah, also spelled Hazar-susah, is a name found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the tribal allotments of the Promised Land. The name is of Hebrew origin, and it is generally understood to mean "village of horses" or "enclosure of horses." This etymology suggests a place associated with horses, possibly indicating a location where horses were bred, kept, or traded. Biblical References Ha'zar-su'sah is mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the territorial inheritance of the tribe of Simeon. The specific reference is found in Joshua 19:5, which lists the towns and villages that were allotted to Simeon within the larger territory of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible renders this verse as follows: "Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah." This verse places Ha'zar-su'sah among other towns that were given to the Simeonites, indicating its significance as part of their inheritance. Historical and Geographical Context The allocation of Ha'zar-su'sah to the tribe of Simeon is significant in understanding the tribal dynamics and settlement patterns in ancient Israel. The tribe of Simeon was one of the smaller tribes, and its territory was situated within the larger allotment of Judah. This arrangement reflects the close relationship between the tribes of Simeon and Judah, as well as the practical considerations of land distribution in the Promised Land. The exact location of Ha'zar-su'sah is not definitively known today, as archaeological evidence has yet to pinpoint its precise site. However, its mention alongside other towns provides some context for its geographical setting. It is likely that Ha'zar-su'sah was located in the southern part of the land of Israel, consistent with the general area inhabited by the tribe of Simeon. Cultural and Theological Significance The mention of Ha'zar-su'sah in the Bible, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land. Each town and village listed in the tribal allotments holds significance in demonstrating the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land among the tribes is a testament to God's faithfulness and the realization of the covenantal promises. Furthermore, the name "village of horses" may imply a cultural or economic aspect of the region, suggesting that horse breeding or trade was a notable activity in Ha'zar-su'sah. This could reflect the broader economic practices of the Israelites and their interactions with neighboring cultures, where horses were valuable for transportation, trade, and military purposes. Conclusion While Ha'zar-su'sah is not a prominent location in biblical narratives, its inclusion in the tribal allotments underscores the detailed record of Israel's settlement and the importance of each community within the covenantal framework. The name itself hints at the economic activities that may have been prevalent in the area, offering a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the ancient Israelites. Concordance Ha'zar-su'sah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:5 Thesaurus Ha'zar-su'sah (1 Occurrence)Ha'zar-su'sah. Hazar-susah, Ha'zar-su'sah. Hazarsusim . Multi-Version Concordance Ha'zar-su'sah (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:5 Ziklag ... /h/ha'zar-su'sah.htm - 6k Hazarsusim (1 Occurrence) Hazar-susah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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