Job 1:6

Berean Standard Bible
One day the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them.
 
King James Bible
Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.
 
NET Bible
Now the day came when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD--and Satan also arrived among them.
 
Hebrew Text:

אֲנִי הָיָה הַיּוֹם הַהוּא בָּאוּ בְנֵי הָאֱלֹהִים לְהִתְיַצֵּב עַל־יְהוָה וַיָּבֹא גַם־הַשָּׂטָן בְּתוֹכָם

 
Transliteration:
Ani hayah hayom hahu, ba'u benei haElohim lehit yatzev al-Adonai, vayavo gam haSatan betokham
 
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Study Bible:
 
One day
The phrase "one day" sets the stage for a specific event in the heavenly realm, indicating a divinely appointed time. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "yom," which can mean a literal day or a period of time. This suggests that what follows is part of God's sovereign plan, unfolding in His perfect timing. It reminds us that God is in control of both the seen and unseen realms, orchestrating events according to His divine purpose.
 
the sons of God
This term, "bene ha'Elohim" in Hebrew, refers to angelic beings who serve in the heavenly court. In the Old Testament, "sons of God" often denotes beings created by God with a special role in His divine council. This phrase emphasizes the reality of a spiritual realm that operates alongside the physical world, where God's will is executed by His heavenly hosts. It also highlights the order and hierarchy within God's creation, where even celestial beings are subject to His authority.
 
came to present themselves
The act of presenting themselves suggests a formal gathering or assembly, akin to a court session where beings report to a higher authority. This implies accountability and order in the heavenly realm, where even the "sons of God" must give an account of their activities. It reflects the biblical theme of God's omniscience and the idea that nothing in creation is hidden from His sight.
 
before the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capital letters indicates the Hebrew name "Yahweh," the covenant name of God. This underscores the personal and relational aspect of God, who is not only the Creator but also the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The phrase "before the LORD" signifies the presence of God as the ultimate authority and judge, before whom all creation must stand. It serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the reverence due to Him.
 
and Satan also came with them
The inclusion of Satan, or "ha-Satan" in Hebrew, meaning "the accuser" or "adversary," introduces the element of opposition within the heavenly court. This highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil even in the divine council. Satan's role as the accuser is consistent with his portrayal throughout Scripture, where he seeks to challenge and undermine God's work. This phrase sets the stage for the testing of Job's faith, illustrating the tension between divine sovereignty and the presence of evil. It serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual battles that believers face and the assurance that God remains sovereign over all.
 
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Commentary:
 
The Heavenly Council: This verse introduces a heavenly council where "the angels" or "sons of God" present themselves before the Lord. This scene provides a glimpse into the divine court, suggesting a structured, organized realm in which celestial beings are accountable to God. It emphasizes God's supreme authority over all beings, including angelic ones.
 
The Presence of Satan: The inclusion of Satan among the angels is significant. The term "Satan" here literally means "the accuser" or "the adversary." His presence indicates that even those who oppose God are not beyond His control and must present themselves before Him. This sets up the narrative tension, as Satan's role will be to challenge Job's faith and integrity.
 
The Role of Satan: In the context of the Book of Job, Satan functions as a tester of human virtue. His presence in the divine council and his subsequent actions against Job suggest a probing question about the nature of righteousness and the fidelity of humanity to God. This theme of testing and proving faith is central to the narrative of Job.
 
The Divine Sovereignty: The verse underscores God's ultimate sovereignty. Even though Satan appears with the angels, it is clear that he operates under God's permission. This suggests that all trials and tribulations, while painful, are under God's purview and purpose.
 
Literary Context: Job 1:6 serves as a narrative transition from the earthly description of Job's life and piety to the celestial drama that drives the rest of the book. It is a critical hinge that moves the story from Job's earthly prosperity to his profound suffering and theological exploration.
 
Theological Implications: This verse raises deep theological questions about the nature of evil, suffering, and divine justice. It introduces the idea that suffering can have a purpose beyond human understanding and that faith may be tested in ways that are incomprehensible. It also challenges the simplistic notion of retributive justice, where good is always rewarded, and evil is always punished in straightforward ways.
 
In sum, Job 1:6 is a powerful verse that sets the stage for the profound and complex dialogues that follow in the Book of Job. It reminds readers of the vast, mysterious, and ultimately sovereign domain of God, where even adversarial forces must operate within divine parameters.