Hazar-Susah: Also Called Hazar-Susim, a City of Judah
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Etymology and Name Variations:
Hazar-Susah, also referred to as Hazar-Susim, is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Hazar-Susah" translates to "village of horses" or "enclosure of horses," reflecting its possible historical significance as a place associated with horse breeding or stabling. The variant "Hazar-Susim" carries the same meaning, with "Susim" being a plural form of "horse" in Hebrew.

Biblical References:
Hazar-Susah is mentioned in the context of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua. Specifically, it is listed among the cities in the territory assigned to the tribe of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following reference:

· Joshua 19:5 : "Ziklag, Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susah."

This verse situates Hazar-Susah within the broader geographical and tribal landscape of ancient Israel, highlighting its inclusion in the inheritance of the tribe of Judah.

Geographical Context:
Hazar-Susah is located in the southern part of the land allocated to Judah. The precise location of Hazar-Susah remains uncertain, as is the case with many ancient biblical sites. However, its mention alongside other cities such as Ziklag and Beth-marcaboth suggests it was part of a network of settlements in the Negev region, an area characterized by its arid climate and strategic importance.

Historical and Cultural Significance:
The mention of Hazar-Susah in the context of Judah's inheritance underscores the importance of this region in the broader narrative of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land. The reference to horses in its name may indicate that the city had a role in the breeding or keeping of horses, which were valuable assets in ancient Near Eastern societies for transportation, agriculture, and military purposes.

Archaeological Insights:
As of now, there is limited archaeological evidence directly linked to Hazar-Susah. The identification of ancient sites often relies on a combination of biblical texts, historical records, and archaeological findings. The lack of specific archaeological data for Hazar-Susah is not uncommon for many minor biblical locations, which may have been small or temporary settlements.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Hazar-Susah in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribes of Israel. Each city and region mentioned in the allotments to the tribes of Israel reflects the divine orchestration of the land distribution, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the historical reality of Israel's settlement in Canaan.

Conclusion:
While Hazar-Susah is a relatively obscure location in the biblical text, its mention contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the detailed record of tribal inheritances. The city's name and its association with horses provide a glimpse into the economic and cultural aspects of life in ancient Judah.
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Joshua 19:5
And Ziklag, and Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusah,
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1 Chronicles 4:31
And at Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusim, and at Bethbirei, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities to the reign of David.
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