Σατανᾶς

an adversary, Satan

Definition

Σατανᾶς (Satanas) is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew word for 'adversary' or 'accuser.' In the New Testament, it primarily refers to the supreme evil being, Satan, the personal enemy of God and humanity, as seen when Jesus rebukes him directly (Matthew 4:10). It can also denote a human adversary or opponent in a general sense, though this usage is rare in the NT; a notable example is when Jesus calls Peter 'Satan' for being a stumbling block (Matthew 16:23). The term consistently portrays a figure of opposition, whether cosmic or personal, working against God's purposes.

Biblical Usage

The word is used exclusively in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, Pauline epistles, and Revelation. It is most frequent in the Gospels, often in narratives of temptation (Mark 1:13) and exorcism (Mark 3:23), and in Jesus' teachings about spiritual conflict (e.g., the parable of the sower, Mark 4:15). In the epistles, it describes Satan's role as a deceiver (2 Corinthians 11:14) and accuser (Revelation 12:9-10). The usage is uniformly negative, depicting active opposition to God's kingdom.

Etymology

Σατανᾶς is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew שָׂטָן (śāṭān), meaning 'adversary' or 'accuser.' It entered Greek through Jewish religious contexts, such as the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), where it often refers to a celestial accuser (e.g., Job 1-2) or human enemies. In the New Testament, the meaning narrows predominantly to the personified evil being, Satan, reflecting developed Jewish apocalyptic thought.

Semantic Range

This word is central to the biblical theme of spiritual warfare, highlighting the reality of a personal, evil being who opposes God and tempts humanity (1 Peter 5:8). It underscores Christ's victory over evil through his ministry, death, and resurrection (Colossians 2:15). Understanding the Greek term enriches reading by clarifying that 'Satan' is not merely a symbol but a specific adversary, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for divine rescue.

In first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman culture, belief in demonic beings was common. The New Testament's use of Σατανᾶς assumes this context but uniquely identifies Satan as the chief enemy of God's Messiah, not just a generic evil spirit. This contrasts with some modern views that might downplay or metaphorize Satan's personal existence, whereas the biblical authors presented him as a real, malevolent agent in cosmic conflict.

διάβολος (diabolos, G1228) — Also translated 'devil,' it emphasizes Satan's role as a slanderer or false accuser. δαίμων (daimōn, G1142) — A general term for a demon or evil spirit, often under Satan's authority. πειράζων (peirazōn, G3985) — Meaning 'the tempter,' used specifically for Satan in Matthew 4:3.

Word Details

Scripture References