The Greek name Sousánna, represented by G4677, identifies an Israelitess whose name is of Hebrew origin and means "lily." It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. This singular mention, however, places her in a significant role as a follower and supporter of Jesus's ministry.
The sole appearance of G4677 is in the Gospel of Luke, where Susanna is listed among a group of women who accompanied Jesus. She is named alongside Iōánna G2489, the wife of Herod's steward, and many G4183 others G2087. The key context provided is that these women actively ministered G1247 to Jesus and his disciples out of their personal substance G5224, indicating they provided financial or material support for the ministry Luke 8:3.
Several related words from her story illuminate the context of her contribution:
- G2489 Iōánna (Joanna, a Christian): Susanna is explicitly named with Joanna, who was the wife G1135 of Chuza G5529, an important official in Herod's G2264 court. This association places Susanna within a group of supporters that included influential individuals Luke 8:3.
- G1247 diakonéō (to be an attendant... minister (unto), serve): This verb defines the action of Susanna and her companions. They were not passive observers but actively served and provided for Jesus's group Luke 8:3.
- G5224 hypárchonta (property or possessions... substance): This noun specifies what the women used for their ministry, showing they contributed from their personal resources and wealth Luke 8:3.
- G2012 epítropos (a commissioner, i.e. domestic manager, guardian:--steward, tutor): This term describes the role of Joanna's husband, highlighting the connection of this group of supporters to the household of Herod.
Though brief, the mention of Susanna carries significant weight regarding the nature of discipleship.
- Active Patronage: Susanna is presented as a model of discipleship through practical support. She and the other women used their personal substance G5224 to ensure the continuation of Jesus's work, demonstrating a form of ministry centered on giving Luke 8:3.
- Female Discipleship: Susanna is part of a notable group of women who were integral to Jesus's ministry. Their role in ministering to him demonstrates that women were active participants and supporters from the movement's early stages.
- A Community of Service: The passage emphasizes a collective effort, as Susanna is listed with Iōánna G2489 and "many others" Luke 8:3. This highlights a community of believers working together to support their Lord.
In summary, G4677 provides a name for a specific form of devoted discipleship. While Susanna appears only once, her inclusion in the narrative is purposeful. It reveals that Jesus's ministry was sustained by a diverse community of followers, including women who contributed their personal resources. Her story in Luke 8:3 serves as a lasting example of service and the vital role of patronage in supporting the work of the gospel.
TRV