Meaning & Origin
Derived from the Hebrew word 'shoshana', meaning 'lily' or 'grace'. In the Old Testament, Susanna was a wife falsely accused of adultery and subsequently vindicated.
Spiritual meaning
Symbol of purity and innocence.
Language details
Susanna
feminine name derived from Hebrew and Greek roots, symbol of purity, lily flower
Pronunciation & Numerology
Pronunciation
SOO-sah-nah
/sʊˈsɑnə/
Lucky number
7
Lucky day
Saturday
Lucky colors
Life path
9
Lucky stone
Sapphire
Cultural & Spiritual notes
The name Susanna gained popularity in Western Christianity due to the Biblical account of 'Susanna and the Elders'. This story, found in the Book of Daniel, relates how Susanna was falsely accused of committing adultery but was eventually exonerated through the intervention of Daniel. Susanna's unwavering faith and unblemished reputation highlight virtues of chastity, honor, and courage that resonated with both medieval and modern Christian communities.
Susanna's name signifies not just grace and beauty, but also the strength and purity of character that one needs to withstand falsely accused or manipulated situations. It is a reminder to stay true to one's beliefs and values despite external pressures, just as Susanna did. Her name can serve as an inspiration for individuals seeking to embody inner grace and outer poise in their daily lives.
Historical references
According to the apocryphal Book of Daniel, Susanna was a beautiful and virtuous wife of Joel, a nobleman in Babylon. She was falsely accused of adultery by two elders, who could not seduce her. Susanna was in danger of being stoned to death until Daniel intervened and proved her innocence through a clever interpretation of the evidence. This event is believed to have taken place in the 6th century BC.
6th century BC
Susanna was also the name of a 15th-century Italian saint, Susanna of Campania. She was a wealthy and pious woman who lived in Naples during the late Middle Ages. One day, as she was praying in her garden, she was raped by two men. In despair, she fled to a convent, where she gave birth to her son, a boy named John. She raised John as a monk, but eventually revealed her secret to him. John, who had become a bishop by then, kept her identity a secret and continued to raise her as his mother. Susanna died peacefully in the convent, and her legend became a popular subject for art and literature in the late Renaissance.
Late Middle Ages
Notable people with this name
Similar & Related Names
Explore names with the same feel or origin.