The Hebrew term 'satan' originally meant 'accuser' or 'adversary' and referred to a heavenly prosecutor under God's authority.

In the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the Book of Job and Zechariah, the term 'satan' is used to describe a role rather than a personal name. This figure acts like a divine prosecutor who challenges the faithfulness of humans, operating within the limits God sets. The satan tests loyalty but does not act independently from God. This early portrayal contrasts sharply with later views of Satan as a rebellious evil being.