סוּסִי

Susi, an Israelite

Definition

Susi is a proper name of an Israelite from the tribe of Manasseh, mentioned only once in the Bible. He was the father of Gaddi, one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan (Numbers 13:11). The name is derived from the Hebrew word for 'horse' (סוּס, sūs), suggesting a meaning like 'my horse' or 'horseman'. As a proper name, it does not have multiple senses, but identifies a specific individual within the biblical narrative of the wilderness journey.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively as a proper name in the Old Testament, appearing only in Numbers 13:11. It is used in the context of listing the leaders from each tribe who were chosen to spy out the Promised Land. There are no other occurrences or patterns of usage.

Etymology

The name סוּסִי (Çûwçîy) is a derivative of the common noun סוּס (sūs, H5483), meaning 'horse'. It is formed with the possessive or gentilic suffix '-i', which can mean 'my' or 'of'. Thus, the name likely means 'my horse' or 'horseman', possibly indicating strength, speed, or status associated with horses in ancient culture.

Semantic Range

In the ancient Near East, horses were symbols of military power, wealth, and prestige, often associated with chariotry. A name derived from 'horse' might have conveyed attributes of strength, nobility, or swiftness. For the Israelite tribes, who were largely pastoral and did not initially use chariots extensively, such a name could reflect aspirational qualities or a familial association with these animals.

סוּס (sūs, H5483) — The root noun meaning 'horse', from which the proper name is derived.

Word Details

Scripture References