During our Bible study discussion in the church, we decided to explore the origins of Lucifer, who was once an angel of light, but due to his rebellion against God, he was cast out of heaven. Some believed that the story of Lucifer symbolizes the dangers of pride and the consequences of disobedience. In contrast, others saw it as a metaphor for the battle between good and evil. Regardless of one’s interpretation, the story of Lucifer, to me, serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of humility and obedience to God. Though Lucifer has been mentioned severally in many books of the Bible, I am curious to know: “What does Lucifer mean in Hebrew?”
In Hebrew, the word for Lucifer is “helel” (הֵילֵל), which is derived from the root word “halal” (הָלַל), meaning “to shine” or “to boast.” The word הֵילֵל (Helel) actually means “shining one” or “morning star.” The term “Lucifer” originates from a Latin word that means “light-bearer,” and it was used in the Latin translation of the Bible, known as the Vulgate, to translate the Hebrew word הֵילֵל (Helel). In later Christian tradition, the name Lucifer came to be associated with Satan, although this is not the original meaning of the term in Hebrew or in the Bible.
In this article, I invite you to join me as I discuss intensively what Lucifer means in Hebrew. I will also look at how to write Lucifer in Hebrew and where the Bible uses the Hebrew version of Lucifer.
Is Lucifer a Hebrew name?
The name “Lucifer” itself is not a Hebrew name. It is a Latin name that means “light-bearer.” In the Bible, the term “Lucifer” is used in some translations of the text to refer to the “shining one” or “morning star,” which is a translation of the Hebrew word הֵילֵל (Helel). However, it is important to note that the use of the name Lucifer in the context of referring to Satan as a fallen angel is a later interpretation that developed in the Christian tradition and is not part of the original Hebrew text or its meaning.
How do you write Lucifer in Hebrew?

As stated above, Lucifer is not a biblical Hebrew name and is not part of Jewish or Christian theology. However, if you wanted to write the name “Lucifer” using Hebrew characters, you would transliterate it as “לוציפר.” The Hebrew Bible uses the term “ha-satan” (הַשָּׂטָן), which means “the adversary,” to refer to a figure who challenges humans and tests their faithfulness to God. This figure is often depicted as a divine messenger who is given permission by God to test humans rather than a rebel or fallen angel.
Where in the Bible does it use the Hebrew version of Lucifer?
The Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible, which was completed by Saint Jerome in the 4th century, used the term “Lucifer” to translate the Hebrew phrase in Isaiah 14:12. The passage in Isaiah 14:12-15 is often interpreted as a taunt against the king of Babylon, who had arrogantly exalted himself and oppressed others. Additionally, in the King James Version of the Bible, which was published in 1611, the term “Lucifer” was also used to refer to the king of Babylon in Isaiah 14:12, even though the original Hebrew text did not use that term. This has led to some confusion and debate over the centuries, with some people interpreting the passage as a reference to Satan or another fallen angel.

As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.