### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Σουσάννα (Sousánna), Strong's `{{G4677}}`, is a transliteration of the Hebrew proper name שׁוּשַׁן (shushan), Strong's `{{H7799}}`, which directly means "lily." As a feminine proper name, it inherently conveys the beauty, purity, and delicate nature associated with this flower. The semantic range of Sousánna is primarily confined to its function as a personal identifier, yet it carries the rich symbolic connotations of the lily: innocence, grace, and often, a pristine beauty. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, lilies were highly valued for their aesthetic appeal and fragrance, frequently appearing in art and literature as emblems of elegance and purity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Σουσάννα (Sousánna) does not appear in the canonical Greek New Testament. Its most prominent association in religious literature is with the virtuous woman in the Apocryphal Book of Susanna, which is typically appended to the Book of Daniel in the Septuagint and some Christian traditions. In this narrative, Susanna, a devout and beautiful woman, is falsely accused of adultery by two lecherous elders but is miraculously vindicated through the wisdom and divine insight of young Daniel. While not considered canonical by all Christian traditions (e.g., Protestantism), the story of Susanna is widely known and highlights themes of justice, steadfast faithfulness in the face of false accusation, and divine intervention, all embodied by the character whose name signifies purity. Due to its absence from the canonical scriptures, there is no direct contextual analysis of its usage within the accepted Protestant or Jewish canons.
### Related Words & Concepts
The direct Hebrew etymological root of Σουσάννα is שׁוּשַׁן (shushan), Strong's `{{H7799}}`, which refers to the lily flower. This word appears numerous times in the Hebrew Bible, often in poetic and descriptive contexts. For instance, lilies are mentioned in the Song of Solomon as symbols of beauty, love, and the beloved (e.g., [[Song of Solomon 2:1]], [[Song of Solomon 2:16]], [[Song of Solomon 4:5]], [[Song of Solomon 6:2]], [[Song of Solomon 6:3]], [[Song of Solomon 7:2]]). They also form part of the intricate decorative motifs for the Temple, appearing on the capitals of the pillars (e.g., [[1 Kings 7:19]], [[1 Kings 7:22]], [[1 Kings 7:26]]) and the molten sea ([[1 Kings 7:26]]). The "lily" is also used metaphorically to describe prosperity and flourishing, as seen in [[Hosea 14:5]]. In the canonical New Testament, while the name Susanna is absent, the lily (κρίνων - krinon, Strong's `{{G2918}}`) is famously referenced by Jesus in His sermon on the mount, highlighting God's meticulous care and provision by comparing the lilies' beauty to Solomon's splendor ([[Matthew 6:28-29]], [[Luke 12:27]]). This broader concept of the lily reinforces its symbolic association with beauty, fragility, and divine care.
### Theological Significance
From a canonical biblical perspective, the theological significance of Σουσάννα (Sousánna) is primarily derived from the rich symbolism of the lily itself. The lily, as eloquently used by Jesus, represents God's meticulous care for His creation, even for transient flowers, implying His even greater care for humanity. This underscores profound theological themes of divine providence, the call to trust in God's provision, and the transient nature of earthly glory compared to God's enduring faithfulness. The association with purity and beauty aligns with biblical ideals of holiness, righteousness, and the inherent beauty of God's design. If one considers the Apocryphal narrative of Susanna, the character embodies unwavering faithfulness, integrity, and the ultimate vindication of the righteous by God. Her story serves as a powerful example of steadfastness in the face of temptation and false accusation, reinforcing the theological principles of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of truth for those who remain pure in heart. Thus, the name, through its etymology and historical association, points to virtues highly esteemed in biblical theology.
### Summary
Σουσάννα (Sousánna), Strong's `{{G4677}}`, is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name meaning "lily." It functions as a feminine proper name, inherently carrying the rich symbolism of the flower: beauty, purity, and innocence. While absent from the canonical New Testament, the name is famously associated with the virtuous woman in the Apocryphal Book of Susanna, where she exemplifies faithfulness and is divinely vindicated. The broader biblical concept of the lily, derived from its Hebrew root `{{H7799}}`, points to themes of natural beauty, divine provision, and the transient nature of earthly glory, as highlighted by Jesus in His teachings. The name, therefore, evokes a sense of pristine beauty and, through its most famous bearer, steadfast righteousness in the face of adversity.
TRV