The Devil.

The intended meaning and application of the word satan can be understood only when we understand its meaning. To falsely think of it purely as a proper name leads to a completely misleading picture.

Similarly, the consideration of the devil leads to a trure perspective of the intended meaning only if we understand the meaning of the word 'devil'. The devil is not an Old Testament concept, and so is not found as such.

We must turn to the New Testament, which was originally written in Greek, in order to understand the word.

There are principally two Greek words that have been translated as devil in the King James version of the Bible, though more modern translations generally distinguish between the two words by using 'devil' or 'demon' according to whichever of the two Greek words is being translated.

When the word used is 'devil' then the translation is from the Greek word, 'diabolos', which means 'a false accuser, a slanderer'. As with the term 'satan', the word is used for any occasion where someone is being slandered or falsely accused.

"In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers Gk.: diabolos but temperate and trustworthy in everything."

1 Timothy 3: 11 "People will be lovers of themselves without love,unforgiving, slanderous Gk.: diabolos, without self-control, "

2 Timothy 3: 3 It is obvious that these devils were people, just as the satans were also people.