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H7854 · Hebrew · Old Testament
שָׂטָן
satan
Noun/Verb
adversary, accuser, Satan

Definition

An adversary or accuser — one who opposes. Used of human opponents, of the angel blocking Balaam's path, and of the cosmic Accuser in Job and Zechariah. The NT personalizes this as the Devil.

Usage & Theological Significance

In Job 1-2 and Zechariah 3, ha-satan (the Accuser) functions in a heavenly court. The definite article suggests a role, not yet a personal name. By the NT, Satan is clearly a personal, fallen being opposing God.

Key Bible Verses

Job 1:6 The sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them.
Zechariah 3:1 He showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel...and Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him.
1 Chronicles 21:1 Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel.

Word Study

Zechariah 3 gives the clearest OT picture: Satan accuses; God rebukes Satan and clothes Joshua in clean garments — a preview of the gospel. Jesus' declaration 'I saw Satan fall like lightning' (Luke 10:18) shows the decisive defeat of the Accuser.

Related Words

External Resources

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