The Fortress of Susa, one of the capitals of the Persian Empire, plays a notable role in the biblical narrative, especially in the books of Nehemiah and Esther. Although a political and administrative fortress, this historical site carries profound symbolism that reflects both human power and divine protection.
In Nehemiah 1:1-2, we find Nehemiah in Susa, serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. Upon receiving news of the devastation of Jerusalem and the plight of the people, Nehemiah is profoundly distressed and prays to God: "Now it came to pass in the month of Kill, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, as I was in Susa the fortress, that Hanani, one of my brothers, came with some men of Judah; and I inquired of them concerning the Jews who had escaped, who were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem." Nehemiah not only grieves over the condition of Jerusalem but also seeks divine intervention to restore the city and its people.
From Susa, Nehemiah is sent back to Jerusalem to lead the rebuilding of the city's walls, demonstrating how God can mobilize individuals to accomplish His restoration purposes even in a distant political environment. In Nehemiah 2:5, he states, "And he said to the king, 'If it pleases the king, and if your servant finds favor in your sight, then send me to Judea, to the city of my fathers' tombs, that I may rebuild it.'" This act of faith and obedience leads to Jerusalem's physical and spiritual restoration, showing divine strength beyond the limitations of a human fortress.
The story of Esther, also set in Susa, reinforces the idea of divine protection amidst earthly power. Esther, a young Jewish woman who becomes queen, is used by God to save her people from an extermination plot orchestrated by Haman. In Esther 4:14, Mordecai reminds Esther of her responsibility and God's providence: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place; but you and your father's house will perish." Esther's intervention exemplifies how God acts to preserve His people even in a foreign stronghold.
Furthermore, Malachi 1–4 highlights the need for spiritual cleansing and the role of the "messenger of the covenant" who will come to restore order and worship to God. Malachi 3:1 prophesies: "Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts." This promise points to the coming of Jesus Christ, who, as described in John 1:14, is the manifestation of the Word: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us" The study of the Fortress of Susa teaches us that while human empires and strongholds have power and influence, proper protection and restoration come from God. Nehemiah and Esther, even from distant and seemingly disadvantaged positions, were instruments of God to fulfill His plan.
Likewise, the message of Malachi and the coming of Jesus Christ reveal that, regardless of circumstances, God's spiritual fortress prevails. Thus, the contrast between Susa's physical and God's spiritual fortress challenges us to reflect on where we seek our security. In times of challenge and adversity, proper protection and restoration come from the Lord, who acts sovereignly to accomplish His purposes and ensure the safety of His people. Like Nehemiah and Esther, we are called to trust in divine providence and to recognize that, despite powerful earthly empires, God is our actual fortress.