Who Was Susa in the Bible?

The Biblical References to Susa

Susa is mentioned multiple times in the Bible, primarily in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel. It is associated both with a people group known as the Susanchites and as a significant geographical location. Susa, known in Hebrew as שׁוּשָׁן (Shushan, Strong’s Concordance H7800), was an ancient city in the region of Persia. The Bible verses mentioning Susa include:

• Ezra 4:9: “Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king in this fashion: from Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions—representatives of the Dinaites, the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the people of Persia and Erech and Babylon and Shushan, the Dehavites, the Elamites…”
• Nehemiah 1:1: “The words of Nehemiah the son of Hacaliah. Now it happened in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Susa the citadel…”
• Esther 1:2, 5: “In those days when King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne in Susa, the citadel…” “And when these days were completed, the king gave for all the people present in Susa the citadel, both great and small, a feast lasting for seven days in the court of the garden of the king’s palace.”
• Daniel 8:2: “And I saw in the vision; and when I saw, I was in Susa the citadel, which is in the province of Elam. And I saw in the vision, and I was at the Ulai canal.”

Historical and Geographical Context

Susa was one of the most important cities in the Persian Empire, serving as its winter capital. It was known for its wealth, grandeur, and strategic significance. The city played a prominent role in several biblical narratives, particularly in the books of Esther and Daniel.

Susa in the Book of Esther

The book of Esther prominently features Susa as the setting for the dramatic events that unfolded during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). Esther, a Jewish woman, became queen and used her position to save her people from a genocidal plot orchestrated by Haman, a high-ranking official. Key events in Esther that occurred in Susa include:

• Esther’s selection as queen (Esther 2:3-18)
• The discovery of Mordecai’s loyalty to the king (Esther 2:21-23)
• Haman’s plot against the Jews (Esther 3:8-15)
• Esther’s courageous intervention (Esther 4:16; 7:1-10)
• The institution of the festival of Purim (Esther 9:20-32)

Susa in the Book of Daniel

In Daniel 8:2, Susa is the location of Daniel’s vision of the ram and the goat, which symbolized the rise and fall of empires and foretold significant events in the history of Israel and surrounding nations. This vision underscores the prophetic significance of Susa as a place where God revealed future events to His prophet.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

God’s Sovereignty in History

The narratives involving Susa emphasize God’s sovereignty over historical events. In the book of Esther, we see God’s providence at work in the lives of His people. Though His name is not mentioned explicitly, His hand is evident in the deliverance of the Jews. Modern Christians can take comfort in knowing that God is in control of all circumstances and works through history to accomplish His purposes (Romans 8:28).

Courage and Faithfulness

Esther’s story is a powerful example of courage and faithfulness. Despite the risks, she chose to act on behalf of her people, saying, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). This exemplifies the kind of bold faith and willingness to sacrifice that Christians are called to emulate. Standing up for righteousness, even in the face of danger, is a key lesson for believers today (Hebrews 11:6).

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Protection and Provision

The story of Esther and the events in Susa highlight God’s protection and provision for His people. Despite living in a foreign and often hostile environment, the Jews experienced God’s deliverance through Esther’s courageous actions. This reassures believers that God is always watching over His people and will provide for their needs in times of trouble (Psalm 121:3-8).

God’s Unseen Hand

In the book of Esther, God’s name is not mentioned, yet His influence is unmistakable. This teaches us that even when God’s presence is not overtly visible, He is still at work. Christians can trust that God is involved in the details of their lives, orchestrating circumstances for their good and His glory (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Connection to Jesus Christ

The Ultimate Deliverer

The deliverance of the Jews in Susa through Esther is a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance that comes through Jesus Christ. Just as Esther interceded on behalf of her people, Jesus intercedes for humanity, offering salvation from sin and eternal death (Hebrews 7:25). Esther’s bravery points to the greater courage and sacrifice of Jesus, who gave His life for the salvation of the world (John 3:16).

The Role of Mediator

Esther’s role as a mediator for her people mirrors Jesus’ role as our mediator before God. She risked her life to plead for the safety of her people, just as Jesus, through His sacrifice, mediates a new covenant between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). This connection reinforces the importance of Christ’s mediatory work and encourages believers to rely on His intercession.

Conclusion

Susa, a significant city in biblical history, serves as a backdrop for key events that demonstrate God’s sovereignty, protection, and provision. The stories set in Susa, particularly in the books of Esther and Daniel, offer valuable lessons for modern Christians about faithfulness, courage, and trust in God. They also point to the greater deliverance and mediation provided by Jesus Christ. Understanding the historical and cultural context of Susa enriches our comprehension of these biblical narratives and their relevance to our lives today.