Susanna’s Righteousness: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Daniel 13

Executive Summary

Daniel 13, often titled “Susanna and the Elders,” is a profound narrative showcasing the virtue of Susanna, her unjust accusation, and her ultimate vindication through divine intervention and the wisdom of Daniel. This chapter, part of the deuterocanonical books, serves as a powerful testament to the themes of righteousness, false accusation, repentance, and God’s unwavering justice. The story highlights the importance of steadfast faith in the face of adversity, the ever-present danger of corruption within societal structures, and the ultimate triumph of truth. The prophetic wisdom exhibited by the young Daniel is a remarkable example of God’s ability to work through unlikely vessels to achieve His purposes. This commentary, rooted in Coptic Orthodox tradition, delves into the spiritual depths of Susanna’s ordeal, drawing parallels to other biblical narratives and offering practical applications for modern believers striving for righteousness. Let’s unpack the depths of how Susanna’s Righteousness prevails.

This blog post aims to provide a verse-by-verse commentary on Daniel 13 from a Coptic Orthodox perspective, highlighting its theological significance and practical relevance for contemporary Christian living. We will explore the historical context, Patristic interpretations, and spiritual applications of this powerful story.

Commentary

Daniel 13:1-3 (KJV) There dwelt a man in Babylon, called Joacim: And he took a wife whose name was Susanna, the daughter of Helcias, a very fair woman, and one that feared the Lord. For her parents also were righteous, and taught their daughter according to the law of Moses.

Daniel 13:1-3 (NKJV) Now in Babylon there lived a man whose name was Joakim, and he took a wife whose name was Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah, a very beautiful woman and one who feared the Lord. Her parents also were righteous, and they taught their daughter according to the Law of Moses.

These opening verses establish the setting in Babylon and introduce the protagonists: Joacim, a man of standing, and Susanna, his wife, described as exceptionally beautiful and God-fearing. The emphasis on Susanna’s upbringing according to the Law of Moses is crucial, highlighting her adherence to righteous principles from a young age. This foundation of faith will be her strength in the trial to come.

Spiritual Application: From the outset, we learn that beauty alone is insufficient; it must be coupled with piety and obedience to God’s commandments. We are reminded to cultivate inward beauty – a heart devoted to God – alongside any outward adornment. As St. Peter writes: “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” (1 Peter 3:3-4). Consider, as well, how to enhance your online presence using website builder services at website builder

Daniel 13:4-5 (KJV) Now Joacim was a great rich man, and had a fair garden joining unto his house: and to him resorted the Jews; because he was more honourable than all others.

Daniel 13:4-5 (NKJV) Now Joakim was very rich, and had a large garden adjoining his house, and the Jews resorted to him because he was more distinguished than all others.

Joacim’s wealth and influence are highlighted, making his home a gathering place for the Jewish community. This social standing will play a significant role in the unfolding drama. The garden, adjacent to the house, becomes the stage for the elders’ wicked scheme.

Spiritual Application: Authority and influence come with immense responsibility. Those in positions of power must be vigilant against corruption and misuse of their standing. We are called to use our influence for good, upholding justice and protecting the vulnerable, not exploiting them.

Daniel 13:6-9 (KJV) The judges were appointed from among the people that year. Now as they went into Joacim’s house, Susanna came in, and walked about in the garden. And when the elders saw her, they lusted after her. And they perverted their own mind, and turned away their eyes, that they might not look unto heaven, nor remember just judgments.

Daniel 13:6-9 (NKJV) So the two elders were appointed as judges that year. These men frequented Joakim’s house, and Susanna would come there and walk in her husband’s garden. When the elders saw her, they became lustful in their hearts. They suppressed their consciences so they would not look to Heaven or remember righteous judgments.

The introduction of the two elders, appointed as judges, marks a turning point. Their lustful gaze upon Susanna reveals a deep moral corruption. Verse 9 is particularly damning, exposing their conscious decision to ignore divine law and just judgment, succumbing to their base desires. This willful blindness foreshadows their deceitful accusations.

Patristic Insight: St. Augustine, reflecting on lust, writes: “Libido enim, quantum ad mentem pertinet, amor est rerum sibi in inferioribus positarum.” (Lust, as far as it pertains to the mind, is the love of things placed below oneself – Augustine, De Trinitate, XII, 12). The elders’ lust is a perversion of love, a degradation of their minds and souls.

Spiritual Application: We must guard our hearts and minds against lust and temptation. As Christ taught, “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” (Matthew 5:28). This passage emphasizes the importance of controlling our thoughts and desires, striving for purity of heart.

Daniel 13:10-14 (KJV) And albeit they both were wounded with her love, yet they shewed not one to another their grief. For they were ashamed to declare their lust, that they desired to have to do with her. Yet they watched diligently from day to day to see her. And they said one to another, Let us go home: for it is dinner time. So when they were gone out, they parted the one from the other, and turned back again. And they asked one another the cause of their returning: and they acknowledged their lust: then appointed they a time when they might find her alone.

Daniel 13:10-14 (NKJV) Though both were in love with her, they did not reveal their feelings to each other, for they were ashamed to admit their lustful desire. So they watched carefully day after day to see her. Then one said to the other, “Let’s go home now, it’s time for lunch.” So they left and went their separate ways. But they turned back, and when they met each other, they asked each other the reason. Then they confessed their lust and agreed together to find a time when they could catch her alone.

These verses depict the elders’ internal conflict and their eventual agreement to act upon their lustful desires. The shame they initially feel underscores the gravity of their intended sin. Their coordinated effort to find Susanna alone highlights their premeditation and malicious intent.

Spiritual Application: Sin often begins in secret, fueled by hidden desires and unconfessed thoughts. Confession and accountability are vital tools in resisting temptation. When we bring our struggles into the light, we diminish their power over us.

Daniel 13:15-19 (KJV) And it fell out, as they watched a fit time, she went in as before with two maids only, and she was desirous to wash herself in the garden: for it was hot. And there was no body there save the two elders, that had hid themselves, and watched her. Then she said to her maids, Bring me oil and washing balls, and shut the garden doors, that I may wash me. And they did as she bade them, and shut the garden doors, and went out at a privy posterne.

Daniel 13:15-19 (NKJV) It happened one day, while they were watching for an opportunity, that she went in as usual with her two maids, and she felt like bathing in the garden, for it was hot. No one was there except the two elders, who had hidden themselves and were watching her. So she said to her maids, “Bring me oil and washing soap, and shut the garden doors so that I may bathe.” So they did as she told them, shut the garden doors, and left by a side entrance.

The stage is set for the elders’ confrontation with Susanna. The detail about her desire to bathe because of the heat provides a natural context for her actions. The absence of others, except for the hidden elders, underscores her vulnerability.

Spiritual Application: We must be aware of our vulnerabilities and take precautions to protect ourselves from temptation and harm. This does not mean living in fear, but rather exercising wisdom and prudence in our daily lives.

Daniel 13:20-27 (KJV) Then the two elders rose up, and ran unto her, saying, Behold, the garden doors are shut, that no man can see us, and we are in love with thee; therefore consent unto us, and lie with us. If thou wilt not, we will bear witness against thee, that a young man was with thee: and that was why thou didst send away thy maids from thee. Then Susanna sighed, and said, I am straitened on every side: for if I do this thing, it is death unto me: and if I do it not, I cannot escape your hands. It is better for me to fall into your hands, and not do it, than to sin in the sight of the Lord. With that Susanna cried with a loud voice: and the two elders cried also, and ran their way.

Daniel 13:20-27 (NKJV) Then the two elders ran to her and said, “Look, the garden doors are shut, no one can see us, and we desire you; therefore, consent and lie with us. If you refuse, we will testify against you that a young man was with you, and that is why you sent your maids away.” Susanna sighed deeply and said, “I am hemmed in on every side! For if I do this thing, it will be death for me. And if I do not, I cannot escape your hands. It is better for me to fall into your hands than to sin against the Lord.” Then Susanna cried out with a loud voice. And the two elders also shouted and ran away.

The elders reveal their evil intentions, demanding Susanna’s compliance and threatening false accusations if she refuses. Susanna’s inner turmoil is palpable. She faces a terrible choice: succumb to their demands and sin against God, or resist and face public shame and possible death. Her courageous decision to choose righteousness over self-preservation is a powerful testament to her faith.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in his defense against Arian accusations, exemplifies a similar unwavering commitment to truth, even in the face of persecution. He declared, “Si mundus contra Athanasium, tunc Athanasius contra mundum.” (If the world is against Athanasius, then Athanasius is against the world). Susanna, too, stands firm against the corrupt world around her.

Spiritual Application: We are often faced with difficult choices that require us to prioritize our faith over personal comfort or security. Susanna’s example encourages us to choose righteousness, even when the consequences are daunting, trusting that God will ultimately vindicate us.

Daniel 13:28-29 (KJV) Then Susanna’s servants heard the crying in the garden, and rushed in at the privy posterne door, to see what was done. But when the elders had declared their tale, the servants were greatly ashamed: for there was never such a report made of Susanna.

Daniel 13:28-29 (NKJV) Now Susanna’s servants heard the commotion in the garden, so they rushed in through the side entrance to see what had happened. When the elders told their story, the servants were very embarrassed, for nothing like this had ever been said about Susanna.

The elders immediately accuse Susanna before her servants, further solidifying their false narrative. The servants’ shame and disbelief reflect Susanna’s unblemished reputation.

Spiritual Application: Reputation is a valuable asset, but it is not the ultimate measure of our worth. Our character before God is what truly matters. Susanna’s integrity shines through, even in the face of false accusations.

Daniel 13:30-33 (KJV) So when the people came the next day to her husband Joacim, the two elders also came, full of mischievous imagination against Susanna to put her to death. And they said before the people, Send for Susanna, the daughter of Helcias, Joacim’s wife. And so they sent. So she came with her parents, her children, and all her kindred. Now Susanna was a very delicate woman, and beauteous to behold.

Daniel 13:30-33 (NKJV) The next day, when the people gathered at the home of her husband Joakim, the two elders came, full of wicked plans to have Susanna put to death. They said publicly, “Send for Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah, the wife of Joakim.” So they sent for her. When she came, accompanied by her parents, her children, and all her relatives, Susanna was very delicate and beautiful.

The public trial is set in motion. The elders’ “mischievous imagination” reveals their malicious intent to manipulate public opinion and secure Susanna’s execution. The presence of Susanna’s family underscores the gravity of the situation.

Spiritual Application: In times of trial, the support of family and community can be a source of strength. Susanna’s family stands by her, offering her comfort and solidarity.

Daniel 13:34-41 (KJV) And those wicked men commanded to uncover her head, (for it was not lawful to discover her head,) that they might see her beauty. And all the people wept. Then the two elders stood up in the midst of the people, and laid their hands upon her head. And she weeping looked up toward heaven: for her heart trusted in the Lord. And the elders said, As we walked in the garden alone, this woman came in with two maids, and shut the garden doors, and sent the maids away from her. Then a young man, who was there hid, came unto her, and they lay together. And we being in a corner of the garden, seeing this wickedness, ran unto them. And when we saw them together, we could not hold him: for he was stronger than we, and opened the door, and leaped out. But we took this woman, and asked her who the young man was, but she would not tell us: these things do we testify.

Daniel 13:34-41 (NKJV) Those wicked men ordered her veil to be removed (for it was unlawful for a woman to appear with her head uncovered) so that they might gaze at her beauty. And all the people wept. Then the two elders stood up in the midst of the people and placed their hands on her head. Susanna, weeping, looked up toward heaven, for her heart trusted in the Lord. The elders said, “As we were walking in the garden alone, this woman came in with her two maids, shut the garden doors, and sent the maids away. Then a young man who was hidden there came to her, and they had sexual relations. Since we were in a corner of the garden, we saw this wickedness and ran toward them. When we found them together, we were unable to restrain the young man because he was stronger than we were; so he opened the door and ran away. But we caught this woman and asked her who the young man was, but she refused to tell us. This is our testimony.”

The elders publicly humiliate Susanna by demanding her head be uncovered, exploiting her beauty to further their wicked agenda. Susanna’s unwavering trust in the Lord, even as she weeps, is a poignant expression of faith. The elders then present their fabricated story, weaving a tale of adultery and accusing Susanna of refusing to reveal her accomplice.

Spiritual Application: Even in moments of profound shame and injustice, we can turn to God for strength and comfort. Susanna’s example teaches us to maintain our faith, even when our circumstances seem hopeless. Like the Psalmist, we can declare, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2).

Daniel 13:42-43 (KJV) Then the assembly believed them, as those were the elders and judges of the people: so they condemned her to death. Then Susanna cried out with a loud voice, and said, O everlasting God, that knowest the secrets, and knowest all things before they be:

Daniel 13:42-43 (NKJV) The assembly believed them, because they were elders and judges of the people; so they condemned her to death. Then Susanna cried out with a loud voice and said, “O eternal God, who knows all secrets and foreknows all things,”

The assembly, swayed by the elders’ authority and deceptive story, condemns Susanna to death. In this moment of despair, Susanna turns to God in prayer, acknowledging His omniscience and seeking His intervention.

Spiritual Application: Prayer is a powerful weapon against injustice and oppression. When we face seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we can turn to God, knowing that He hears our cries and is able to intervene on our behalf. Consider the importance of divine wisdom when planning your digital presence at dohost.

Daniel 13:44-47 (KJV) Thou that knowest that they have borne false witness against me, and, behold, I must die; whereas I never did such things as these men have maliciously invented against me. And the Lord heard her voice. Therefore when she was led to be put to death, the Lord raised up the holy spirit of a young youth, whose name was Daniel:

Daniel 13:44-47 (NKJV) “You know that they have testified falsely against me; and now I must die, though I have done none of the things these men have maliciously charged me with.” Then the Lord heard her voice. As she was being led away to be put to death, God stirred up the holy spirit of a young man named Daniel.

Susanna’s prayer reaches God, who hears her cry and responds by raising up Daniel. This divine intervention marks a pivotal moment in the story, signaling the beginning of Susanna’s deliverance.

Spiritual Application: God is a God of justice, and He hears the prayers of the oppressed. When we are falsely accused or unjustly treated, we can trust that He will intervene on our behalf, even in unexpected ways.

Daniel 13:48-63 (KJV) Who cried with a loud voice, I am clear of the blood of this woman. Then all the people turned them toward him, and said, What mean these words that thou hast spoken? So he standing in the midst of them said, Are ye such fools, ye sons of Israel, that without examination or knowledge of the truth ye have condemned a daughter of Israel? Return again to the place of judgment: for they have borne false witness against her. Wherefore all the people turned again in haste, and Daniel said unto them, Put these two asunder, far one from another, and I will examine them. So when they were put asunder one from another, Daniel called one of them, and said unto him, O thou old in days, now thy wickedness has come out, which thou hast committed before: In perverting judgment, in condemning the innocent, and letting the guilty go free; whereas the Lord saith, The innocent and righteous shalt thou not slay. Now then, tell me, Under what tree sawest thou them companying together? Who answered, Under a mastick tree. And Daniel said, Very well; thou hast lied against thine own head; for the angel of God hath received the sentence to cut thee in two. So he put him aside, and commanded to bring the other, and said unto him, O thou seed of Chanaan, and not of Juda, beauty hath deceived thee, and lust hath perverted thine heart. Thus have ye dealt with the daughters of Israel, and they for fear companied with you: but this daughter of Juda would not abide your wickedness. Now therefore tell me under what tree didst thou take them companying together? Who answered, Under an holm tree. Then said Daniel unto him, Very well; thou dost also lie against thine own head: for the angel of God waiteth with the sword to cut thee asunder, that ye may be slain.

Daniel 13:48-63 (NKJV) Then he cried out loudly, “I am innocent of the blood of this woman!” All the people turned to him and asked, “What are you saying?” So he stood among them and said, “Are you such fools, O children of Israel, that you have condemned a daughter of Israel without examination and without knowing the truth? Return to the place of judgment, for these men have testified falsely against her.” So all the people hurried back, and Daniel said to them, “Separate them far from each other, and I will examine them.” So when they were separated from each other, Daniel called one of them and said to him, “You old evil man, now your sins have come upon you, for you have been passing unjust judgments, condemning the innocent and letting the guilty go free, though the Lord said, ‘You shall not put an innocent and righteous person to death.’ Now then, tell me, under what tree did you see them having sexual relations?” He replied, “Under a mastic tree.” Then Daniel said, “Very well! You have told a lie against your own head, for an angel of God is going to split you in two!” Then Daniel dismissed him and ordered the other man to be brought. He said to him, “You descendant of Canaan and not of Judah, beauty has deceived you and lust has perverted your heart! This is how you have been treating the daughters of Israel, and they were intimate with you through fear; but this daughter of Judah would not tolerate your wickedness. Now then, tell me, under what tree did you catch them having sexual relations?” He replied, “Under an oak tree.” Then Daniel said, “Very well! You also have lied against your own head, for the angel of God is waiting with a sword to cut you in two, so that he may kill you!”

Daniel’s bold declaration of Susanna’s innocence shocks the assembly and prompts a re-evaluation of the case. He proposes a separate examination of the two elders, exposing their conflicting testimonies and revealing their perjury. Daniel’s astute questioning and righteous indignation demonstrate the power of divine wisdom in exposing falsehood.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, commenting on the role of prophecy, states: “Prophetia est cognitio futurorum contingentium, ex instinctu divino.” (Prophecy is the knowledge of future contingent events, from divine inspiration). Daniel’s discernment and prophetic insight are a testament to God’s ability to reveal truth through His chosen servants.

Spiritual Application: We must be discerning and courageous in the face of injustice. Daniel’s example teaches us to speak truth to power, challenging corruption and defending the innocent, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

Daniel 13:64 (KJV) With that all the assembly cried out with a loud voice, and praised God, who saveth them that trust in him.

Daniel 13:64 (NKJV) Then all the assembly cried out loudly and praised God, who saves those who trust in Him.

The assembly, having witnessed the exposure of the elders’ lies and the vindication of Susanna, erupts in praise to God, acknowledging His faithfulness in saving those who trust in Him.

Spiritual Application: God is worthy of our praise and gratitude. When we experience His deliverance, we should respond with thanksgiving and acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives.

Daniel 13:65-68 (KJV) And they arose against the two elders, for Daniel had convicted them of false witness by their own mouth: and according to the law of Moses they did unto them in such sort as they thought to have done unto Susanna: and they put them to death. Thus was innocent blood saved the same day. Therefore Helcias and his wife praised God for their daughter Susanna, with Joacim her husband, and all the kindred, because there was no dishonesty found in her.

Daniel 13:65-68 (NKJV) And they rose up against the two elders, for Daniel had convicted them of giving false evidence out of their own mouths. They did to them as they had wickedly intended to do to Susanna, and they put them to death. So innocent blood was saved that day. Hilkiah and his wife praised God for their daughter Susanna, together with her husband Joakim and all her relatives, because no fault was found in her.

Justice is served as the elders are punished according to the law, receiving the fate they had intended for Susanna. The chapter concludes with the rejoicing of Susanna’s family, who praise God for her vindication and the preservation of her innocence.

Spiritual Application: God is a God of justice, and He will ultimately hold all accountable for their actions. While earthly justice may sometimes fail, we can trust that God’s justice will prevail in the end. Susanna’s vindication reminds us that righteousness will ultimately triumph over evil.

Key Reflections

Here are some key reflections and teachings drawn from the story of Susanna:

• ✨ Righteousness as a Shield: Susanna’s unwavering commitment to righteousness was her ultimate defense against false accusations.
• 💡 The Peril of Lust: The elders’ lust serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of unchecked desires.
• 📖 Divine Intervention: God’s intervention through Daniel highlights His faithfulness to those who trust in Him.
• 📜 The Power of Prayer: Susanna’s prayer demonstrates the importance of turning to God in times of trial.
• 🕊️ Justice Prevails: The story underscores the ultimate triumph of justice and the accountability of the wicked.
• ⚖️ Consequences of False Accusations: The punishment of the elders should be a warning for anyone who considers bearing false witness.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why is Daniel 13 considered deuterocanonical?
A: Daniel 13, along with other deuterocanonical books, is included in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) and is accepted as canonical by the Coptic Orthodox Church and other Eastern Orthodox and Catholic traditions. However, it is not included in the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament.

Q: What is the spiritual significance of Daniel’s role in this story?
A: Daniel’s role signifies God’s ability to use even the young and seemingly insignificant to accomplish His purposes. His wisdom and discernment are a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit in guiding those who are faithful to God.

Q: How can we apply the lessons of Susanna’s story to our lives today?
A: We can apply the lessons by striving for righteousness in our own lives, guarding against temptation, trusting in God’s justice, and speaking out against injustice whenever we encounter it. Susanna’s steadfast faith and courage serve as an example for us to follow.

Q: What does this story teach us about the nature of sin?
A: The story reveals the insidious nature of sin, which often begins in secret and can lead to devastating consequences. It highlights the importance of resisting temptation and seeking God’s help in overcoming our weaknesses. Sin, here, is a cancer that, if left unchecked, devours the soul and corrupts the spirit.

Conclusion

The story of Susanna and the Elders in Daniel 13 is more than just a historical narrative; it is a timeless lesson in faith, justice, and the unwavering power of God. Susanna’s courage in the face of overwhelming adversity, combined with Daniel’s prophetic wisdom, serves as an inspiration for believers seeking to live righteously in a corrupt world. The triumph of truth and the vindication of innocence demonstrate God’s commitment to justice and His faithfulness to those who trust in Him. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we draw strength from this narrative, embracing the call to defend the oppressed and uphold the principles of righteousness in all aspects of our lives. Remember, as you build your online presence and brand using various marketing tools, stay honest and truthful. Consider tools like a landing page builder to effectively showcase your brand’s message at landing page builder. Susanna’s Righteousness teaches that divine support and the vindication of truth will always prevail in the long run.

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Daniel 13, Susanna and the Elders, Coptic Orthodox Theology, Biblical Commentary, Deuterocanonical Books, Righteousness, False Accusation, Daniel, Patristic Insights, Spiritual Application

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Explore a Coptic Orthodox verse-by-verse commentary on Daniel 13 (Susanna and the Elders). Discover insights into Susanna’s righteousness, the triumph of justice, and spiritual applications for modern life.