Satan

The primary adversary and embodiment of evil in the Abrahamic traditions. The concept evolved significantly across the three faiths.

In Judaism

Ha-Satan (“the accuser”) appears in the Hebrew Bible not as God’s enemy but as a member of the divine council who tests humans with God’s permission (as in Job). Later Jewish tradition developed Satan as a more malevolent figure, but he remains subordinate to God.

In Christianity

Satan is the supreme evil being, a fallen angel who rebelled against God and was cast out of heaven. He tempted Adam and Eve, tempted Jesus in the wilderness, and rules over demons. He will be ultimately defeated at Christ’s return. Christian tradition identifies him with the serpent in Eden and the dragon of Revelation.

In Islam

Iblis was a jinn (not an angel) who refused God’s command to bow before Adam out of pride, declaring himself superior because he was made of fire while Adam was made of clay. Expelled from paradise, he vowed to lead humans astray until Judgment Day. Shaytan (satan) also refers generally to evil jinn and devils who follow Iblis.