Job 1:7

Berean Standard Bible
“Where have you come from?” said the LORD to Satan. “From roaming through the earth,” he replied, “and walking back and forth in it.”
 
King James Bible
And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.
 
NET Bible
The LORD said to Satan, "Where have you come from?" And Satan answered the LORD, "From roving about on the earth, and from walking back and forth across it."
 
Hebrew Text:

וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־הַשָּׂטָן מֵאַיִן תָּבוֹא וַיַּעַן הַשָּׂטָן אֶת־יְהוָה וַיֹּאמַר מִשּׁוּט בָּאָרֶץ וּמֵהִתְהַלֵּךְ בָּהּ׃

 
Transliteration:
Vayomer Adonai el-haSatan me'ayin tavo vayan haSatan et-Adonai vayomer mishut ba'aretz u'me'hit'halech ba.
 
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Study Bible:
 
Where have you come from?
This question posed by the LORD is not due to a lack of knowledge, as God is omniscient. Instead, it serves to initiate a dialogue with Satan, highlighting the divine authority and the accountability that even spiritual beings have before God. The Hebrew root for "come" (בּוֹא, bo) implies entering or arriving, suggesting a transition from one state or place to another. This question sets the stage for the unfolding drama of Job's testing, emphasizing God's sovereign oversight over all creation.
 
said the LORD
The use of "LORD" here, translated from the Hebrew יהוה (YHWH), signifies the covenantal name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature. This name is often associated with God's faithfulness and His relationship with His people. The dialogue between the LORD and Satan underscores the divine authority and the ultimate control God has over the events that transpire, including the trials of Job.
 
to Satan
"Satan" in Hebrew (שָׂטָן, satan) means "adversary" or "accuser." In the context of Job, Satan functions as the accuser of humanity, challenging the integrity of Job's faith. This role is consistent with other scriptural references where Satan seeks to undermine the relationship between God and His people. The presence of Satan in the heavenly court illustrates the spiritual warfare and the testing of faith that believers may encounter.
 
From roaming through the earth
The phrase "roaming through the earth" suggests a restless and aimless wandering. The Hebrew verb שׁוּט (shut) conveys the idea of moving to and fro, often with a sense of searching or investigating. This imagery reflects Satan's role as a prowler, seeking opportunities to challenge and accuse God's people. It also serves as a reminder of the spiritual vigilance required of believers, as echoed in 1 Peter 5:8, where Satan is described as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.
 
he replied
Satan's response is direct and unapologetic, indicating his boldness and audacity in the presence of God. The Hebrew verb עָנָה (anah) for "replied" can also mean to answer or respond, often in a confrontational or challenging manner. This interaction highlights the tension between the forces of good and evil, setting the stage for the testing of Job's righteousness.
 
and walking back and forth in it
The phrase "walking back and forth" further emphasizes the idea of persistent and deliberate movement. The Hebrew verb הָלַךְ (halak) means to walk or go, suggesting a purposeful exploration. This activity of Satan underscores his intent to scrutinize and challenge the faithfulness of God's people. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual reality that believers face, where their faith is continually tested and refined through trials and adversities.
 
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Commentary:
 
Divine Assembly: This verse is set within a scene where the "sons of God" (bene Elohim) present themselves before the LORD, and among them is Satan. This assembly portrays a divine council, where God interacts with heavenly beings. It's a scene that underscores God's sovereign authority and the cosmic order.
 
Role of Satan: The term "Satan" (HaSatan) here functions as a title, meaning "the Accuser" or "the Adversary." His role is to patrol the earth and test the faith and integrity of humans. This depiction is crucial in understanding the adversarial role he plays in the story of Job.
 
God's Inquiry: God's question to Satan, "From where have you come?" isn't because God lacks knowledge, but it serves to initiate the dialogue and reveal Satan's activities. It's a rhetorical device that sets the stage for the ensuing challenge to Job's righteousness.
 
Satan's Response: Satan's answer, "From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it," indicates his restlessness and vigilance. It emphasizes his role as a wanderer, scrutinizing human behavior, which aligns with his purpose as an accuser.
 
Literary Structure: This verse introduces the central conflict of the Book of Job. It sets up the narrative tension between God's confidence in Job's righteousness and Satan's skepticism. The literary structure here is deliberate, with a dialogue that builds the foundation for the trials Job will face.
 
Theological Implications: The verse raises profound theological questions about the nature of suffering, the role of adversarial forces, and the reasons behind human suffering. It suggests that Job's trials are not a result of his sins but part of a cosmic test of his faithfulness and integrity.
 
Application and Reflection:
 
Faith under Trial: Job 1:7 invites readers to reflect on the nature of faith and righteousness under trial. It challenges the simplistic notion that suffering is always a result of personal sin and encourages a deeper exploration of divine justice and human perseverance.
 
God's Sovereignty: The interaction underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all beings, including adversarial forces like Satan. It reassures readers that even in the presence of trials and adversaries, God remains in control.
 
Moral Integrity: Job's story, beginning with this verse, exemplifies unwavering moral integrity. It serves as an inspiration for maintaining faith and righteousness, even in the face of inexplicable suffering.