Updated on May 23, 2026

Susa City

CityOld Testament

32.1897°N, 48.2597°E View on Map

About Susa

Susa (Shushan) was one of the capitals of the Persian Empire. The events of the book of Esther took place here in the palace of King Xerxes. Nehemiah served as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes here before being sent to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. Daniel also had visions here.

Events at Susa

Esther before the king

Susa · EST 5:2

Linked to this placeEstherJewish queen who saved her people from Susa

History of Susa

Exilec. 550 BC
Daniel has vision at Susa
DAN 8:2
Post-Exilec. 480 BC
Esther becomes queen in Susa
EST 2:16-17
Post-Exilec. 473 BC
Haman's plot against Jews exposed in Susa
EST 7:1-10
Post-Exilec. 445 BC
Nehemiah serves as cupbearer to king in Susa
NEH 1:1

Notable Characters in Susa

Esther

Jewish queen who saved her people from Susa

Nehemiah

Cupbearer in Susa who rebuilt Jerusalem's walls

Daniel

Prophet who received visions at Susa

Locations Related to Susa

Biblical Significance of Susa

Susa (Shushan) was the winter capital of the Persian Empire, where several biblical dramas unfolded. The book of Esther is set entirely in Susa's royal palace, where Esther risked her life to save the Jews. Nehemiah served as cupbearer to the Persian king here before receiving permission to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. Daniel also received significant prophetic visions at Susa. The city represents God's providential care for His people even in foreign capitals.

Key Verses about Susa

Esther 1:2-5 Nehemiah 1:1 Daniel 8:2

Frequently Asked Questions

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