(Re)Dating the Story of Susanna: A Proposal

Many studies have examined the story of Susanna from various perspectives, yet there is still no widespread consensus on the narrative's date of composition. This paper argues for a specific date for the story, viz., the early 1st century B.C.E. This date is consistent with textual evidence, as well the internal evidence of the story, such as the themes of witnesses and gender relations. In connection with the latter theme, this paper discusses the connection(s) between Susanna, Gk. Esther, and Judith, building on the work of Tal Ilan, who argues that all three of these works might have been used as propaganda for the reign of Queen Salome Alexandra (76-67 B.C.E.).