The people of Israel lament their exile. Susanna and Joacim celebrate their love for one another, while Susanna’s father, Chelsias, shares in the couple’s happiness. Joacim is then called away on business and Susanna is filled with a sense of foreboding.

Two elder statesmen confess their lust for Susanna to each other and plot to assault her when the opportunity arises.

On his travels Joacim reflects on how he misses his wife.

In the meantime Susanna, who misses him just as much, seeks respite from the heat of the day by taking a bath in her garden. The two Elders first spy on her and then assault her, trying to force her to yield to their lust. When she refuses, they publicly accuse her of adultery with an unnamed man.

Joacim receives news of the allegation but refuses to believe it. He sets off to return to the city.

Susanna has been sentenced to death for her crime. She maintains her innocence in the face of the Elders’ accusation and asks the assembled people to convey the truth to her husband.

As the Second Elder calls for her to be taken away for execution, a youth named Daniel emerges from the crowd, protests Susanna’s innocence and accuses the people of being too ready to accept, without evidence, the Elders’ allegation.

Daniel demands to be allowed to question the two Elders separately and asks each in turn to name the tree beneath which they saw Susanna with her lover. When each of them gives a different answer, their lie is exposed. Susanna is exonerated and the Elders are condemned for their falsehood.

Joacim returns with Chelsias and all join in celebration.