Σουσάννα

Susannah

Definition

Σουσάννα (Susannah) is a proper name referring to a specific woman mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. In the New Testament, it refers exclusively to Susannah, one of the women who provided financial and material support for Jesus and his disciples during his ministry (Luke 8:3). The name itself means 'lily' in Hebrew, a symbol often associated with purity and beauty. While the biblical text does not elaborate on her background, her inclusion highlights the crucial role women played in supporting Jesus's earthly work.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 8:3. It is used in the specific context of listing the names of women who were part of Jesus's traveling company and who contributed out of their own means to support the group. The usage is purely as a personal identifier.

Etymology

The name Σουσάννα (Sousanna) is a direct borrowing from the Hebrew name שׁוֹשַׁנָּה (Shoshannah), which means 'lily.' It passed into Greek through the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament), where it appears in the story of Susanna in the Additions to Daniel (Daniel 13). The New Testament usage retains this Hebrew origin as a personal name.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is a simple proper name, the person it identifies holds theological significance. Susannah's mention underscores the active and essential participation of women in Jesus's ministry, challenging cultural norms of the time. Her support, along with other women like Mary Magdalene and Joanna, demonstrates the diverse community Jesus gathered and the importance of practical, financial stewardship in enabling the proclamation of the gospel. Understanding her as a historical supporter enriches our view of the early Jesus movement.

In the 1st-century Jewish and Greco-Roman context, women of means, like Susannah, could manage their own resources. Her ability to provide financial support indicates she was likely a woman of some independent wealth or status. Her participation in a traveling rabbi's entourage, while not unheard of, placed her in a counter-cultural role, as women's primary domain was typically the household. Her action reflects a personal commitment to Jesus's message that transcended conventional social boundaries.

There are no direct synonyms, as this is a unique proper name. Other women supporters are named individually (e.g., Μαρία (Maria, G3137) — Mary Magdalene; Ἰωάννα (Iōanna, G2489) — Joanna).

Word Details

Scripture References