Σατανᾶς (Satanas)
Satanas
Satan
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 34 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word Satanas identifies the supreme adversary of God and Christ, a title derived from Aramaic meaning one who lies in wait or opposes. In the New Testament, it functions as a proper name for the prince of evil spirits rather than a generic descriptor. The sources note that this figure incites apostasy and sin through deception, often described as circumventing humanity with wiles or possessing individuals to inflict disease, as seen in Luke 13:16.
A striking example of its personal weight occurs when Jesus addresses Peter directly as “Satan” in Matthew 16:23. This moment highlights the term’s theological gravity: it is not merely a distant monster but an active spiritual force that can oppose God’s redemptive plan even from within the circle of discipleship. The texts also link Satan to idolatry and describe him as ruling over demons who control worshippers.
Scripture presents a clear trajectory for this adversary. While he currently operates with significant power, including influencing false prophets in Thessalonica (2 Thessalonians 2:9), his authority is ultimately limited by God. The book of Revelation details his eventual binding and final destruction, affirming that the adversary will be overcome on Christ’s return.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Satanas identifies the supreme adversary of God, a figure who actively opposes divine purposes through deception and temptation. In the New Testament, this is not an abstract concept but a personal spiritual force that seeks to turn hearts away from Christ. Jesus Himself confronted this reality directly, rebuking Peter when his human concerns clashed with God’s redemptive plan in Matthew 16:23. This reminds us that opposition can come from within our own circles, making vigilance essential.
Despite the adversary’s current activity, Scripture assures believers of his ultimate defeat. Romans 16:20 promises that the God of peace will crush Satan under our feet, a victory secured by Christ’s work. While we may face trials or spiritual attacks, as Paul noted in II Corinthians 11:14 where Satan masquerades as an angel of light, we are not ignorant of his schemes. Our hope rests not in our own strength but in the certainty that evil is temporary and God’s victory is absolute.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 34 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Satan19×
- of Satan4×
- Satan;4×
- Satan.3×
- to Satan2×
- of Satan.1×
- of Satan —1×
- of Satan [is],1×
- Satan,1×
- Satan!1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σατανᾶς13×
- σατανᾶ6×
- σατανᾶν4×
- σατανᾶ,3×
- σατανᾷ2×
- σατανᾶ·2×
- σατανᾶ.2×
- σατανᾶς.¶1×
- σατανᾶς.1×
- Σατανᾶς.1×
- Σατανᾶς1×
- Σατανᾶ·1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 16:23
But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me, for you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of men.”
Jesus uses this title to rebuke Peter, showing that human reasoning contrary to God's will can align with the adversary's opposition.
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Luke 13:16
Ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham whom Satan had bound eighteen long years, be freed from this bondage on the Sabbath day?”
This verse highlights Satan's role in binding individuals, emphasizing Jesus' compassion in freeing those oppressed by evil.
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II Corinthians 11:14
And no wonder, for even Satan masquerades as an angel of light.
Paul warns that the adversary disguises himself as an angel of light, requiring discernment to recognize his deceptive tactics.
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Romans 16:20
And the God of peace will quickly crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
This promise assures believers that God will ultimately crush the adversary, providing hope and confidence in Christ's victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Satanas mean in the New Testament?
Is Satanas a generic term or a specific being?
How should Christians respond to the influence of Satan?
Every Occurrence (34 verses across 12 books)
Matthew 3 verses
Then Jesus said to him, “Get behind me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and you shall…
Matthew 12:26If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand?
Matthew 16:23But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me, for you are not setting your…