### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sâṭân**, represented by `{{H7854}}`, means **an opponent** or **adversary**. It is used 27 times in 23 verses. While it can refer to any adversary, it is especially used with the article prefixed to refer to **Satan**, the arch-enemy of good. The term is derived from the root `{{H7853}}`, which means to attack or accuse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7854}}` is used to describe both human and supernatural opposition. Human adversaries are seen when the Philistines fear David might become an **adversary** in battle [[1 Samuel 29:4]], and when the LORD **stirred up** Hadad and Rezon as adversaries to Solomon ([[1 Kings 11:14]], [[1 Kings 11:23]]). The term is also used for a divine agent, as when the angel of the LORD stood in the way of Balaam as an **adversary** [[Numbers 22:22]]. The most prominent use refers to Satan, a specific spiritual being who comes before the LORD to question Job's integrity [[Job 1:6-9]] and who stands up to **provoke** David to number Israel [[1 Chronicles 21:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and actions of an adversary:
* `{{H7853}}` **sâṭan**: As the primitive root, this word means to **attack** or **resist**. It is used to describe Satan's purpose in standing before Joshua the high priest, which was to **resist** him [[Zechariah 3:1]].
* `{{H5496}}` **çûwth**: This word means to **entice**, **move**, or **provoke**. It describes Satan's action of **provok[ing]** David to number Israel [[1 Chronicles 21:1]] and **mov[ing]** God against Job [[Job 2:3]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad**: This verb, meaning to **stand**, is often used to position the adversary. Satan is seen **standing** at the right hand of Joshua to resist him [[Zechariah 3:1]] and is invoked to **stand** at the right hand of the wicked man [[Psalms 109:6]].
* `{{H6965}}` **qûwm**: Meaning to **rise**, this word is used when God **stirred up** (literally, caused to rise) an **adversary** against Solomon [[1 Kings 11:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7854}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of spiritual conflict.
* **The Role of Accuser:** Satan functions as an accuser before God. He questions Job's motives for being righteous, asking, "Doth Job **fear** God for nought?" [[Job 1:9]], and stands to **resist** the high priest Joshua [[Zechariah 3:1]].
* **An Agent of Testing:** While an adversary, Satan operates within the bounds of God's sovereignty. The LORD gives Satan permission to test Job, demonstrating that his power is limited ([[Job 1:12]], [[Job 2:6]]). He becomes an instrument through which a person's faith is tried.
* **Source of Opposition:** The term broadly defines forces hostile to God's people and purposes. This can be political, as with Solomon's **adversaries** [[1 Kings 11:25]], or spiritual, as when Satan stood up against Israel [[1 Chronicles 21:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7854}}` provides a framework for understanding opposition in the biblical narrative. It is not merely a name but a functional title describing a role—that of an **adversary**. This role can be filled by men, angels, or the specific accuser, Satan. The concept illustrates that while opposition and accusation exist, they are ultimately subject to the authority and purposes of God, who can stir up an adversary [[1 Kings 11:14]] and also rebuke him [[Zechariah 3:2]].
TRV