Susanna
The Chaste Wife
Babylonian exile
A righteous Hebrew wife in Babylon falsely accused by elders, vindicated by the young Daniel.
“It is better for me to fall into your hands than to sin in the sight of the Lord.” — Susanna 23Talk with Susanna
The story of Susanna
Susanna was a beautiful and God-fearing woman living in Babylon during the exile. She was the wife of a wealthy man named Joakim and was known for her strict adherence to the Law of Moses. Her story takes place in the garden of her home, where she was spotted by two elderly judges who had been appointed as leaders of the community.
The two elders became obsessed with her and tried to force her to be with them. When she refused, choosing to remain faithful to God and her husband even at the risk of her life, they falsely accused her of adultery with a young man. Because they were respected elders, their testimony was believed, and Susanna was condemned to death.
As she was being led away, Susanna cried out to God, and He stirred the spirit of a young man named Daniel. Daniel halted the execution and cross-examined the two elders separately; when their stories about the tree under which the alleged crime happened did not match, their lies were exposed. Susanna was vindicated, and her story is found in Daniel 13, which is included in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles.
Key passages
Daniel 13:1–27
Susanna’s virtue is described, and the two elders plot against her.
Daniel 13:28–46
Susanna is falsely accused and sentenced to death, but she prays for help.
Daniel 13:47–64
Daniel exposes the elders’ lies through separate questioning, saving Susanna.
Key books
- Daniel (Greek additions)
Questions you can ask
- “What did the elders demand of you?”
- “How did you call on God?”
- “How did young Daniel vindicate you?”
Common questions
Where is the story of Susanna found?
It is found in Daniel chapter 13. This chapter is included in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles but is considered part of the Apocrypha by Protestants.
Why is Susanna’s story important?
It serves as a powerful example of personal integrity, the importance of a fair trial, and God’s protection of the innocent.
Who saved Susanna from death?
God saved her by inspiring a young man named Daniel to speak up and expose the false testimony of the two elders.