Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Hazar-susim is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Simeon in the Old Testament. The specific reference to Hazar-susim can be found in 1 Chronicles 4:31. Scriptural Context: 1 Chronicles 4:31 states: "Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David." This passage is part of a larger genealogical account detailing the descendants of Simeon, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The context of this verse is a listing of towns and settlements that were inhabited by the Simeonites. Etymology and Meaning: The name "Hazar-susim" is derived from Hebrew, where "Hazar" means "village" or "settlement," and "susim" means "horses." Thus, Hazar-susim can be translated as "village of horses" or "settlement of horses." This name suggests that the area may have been known for horse breeding or had some significant association with horses. Historical and Geographical Significance: Hazar-susim is one of the towns allocated to the tribe of Simeon, which was situated within the larger territory of Judah. The Simeonites were originally given land within the boundaries of Judah, as described in Joshua 19:1-9. This allocation reflects the fulfillment of Jacob's prophecy in Genesis 49:7, where Simeon and Levi were to be scattered in Israel due to their violent actions. The mention of Hazar-susim alongside other towns indicates its role as part of the network of settlements that supported the tribe of Simeon. The reference to these towns being under Simeonite control "until the reign of David" suggests a change in territorial administration or population distribution during or after David's reign, possibly due to the centralization of the kingdom and the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital. Theological Implications: The inclusion of Hazar-susim in the genealogical records underscores the importance of land and inheritance in the biblical narrative. The division of land among the tribes of Israel was not only a matter of practical settlement but also a fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. Each town and settlement, including Hazar-susim, represents a tangible expression of God's covenant with Israel. Furthermore, the genealogies and territorial listings in Chronicles serve to remind the post-exilic community of their heritage and identity as God's chosen people. They emphasize continuity with the past and the enduring nature of God's promises, even amidst the challenges of exile and return. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence for Hazar-susim is limited, the general region of Simeon's inheritance has been subject to archaeological study. These studies provide insights into the settlement patterns, economic activities, and cultural practices of the time. The mention of horses in the name Hazar-susim may reflect the presence of horse-related activities, which were significant in ancient Near Eastern societies for transportation, trade, and military purposes. Conclusion: Hazar-susim, as a part of the Simeonite inheritance, holds a place in the biblical narrative that highlights the distribution of land among the tribes of Israel. Its mention in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the historical and theological significance of land, identity, and divine promise in the life of 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. Strong's Hebrew 2702. Chatsar Susim -- "village of horses," a place in Simeon... "village of horses," a place in Simeon. Transliteration: Chatsar Susim Phonetic Spelling: (khats-ar' soo-seem') Short Definition: Hazar-susim. ... Hazar- susim. ... /hebrew/2702.htm - 6k Thesaurus Hazarsusim (1 Occurrence)... HAZAR-SUSA; HAZAR-SUSIM. ad'-ar; e'-nan; gad'-a; hat'-i-kon; ma'-veth; shoo'-al; su'-sa; su'-sim. See HAZAR. Multi-Version Concordance Hazarsusim (1 Occurrence) ... /h/hazarsusim.htm - 7k Hazar-susim (1 Occurrence) Sansannah (1 Occurrence) Ha'zar-su'sim (1 Occurrence) Hazar (12 Occurrences) Marcaboth (2 Occurrences) Beth-mar'caboth (2 Occurrences) Bethmarcaboth (2 Occurrences) Beth-marcaboth (2 Occurrences) Beth-biri (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hazar-susim (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 4:31 Subtopics Related Terms |