In the Old Hebrew timeline before 1 BC, without Greek influence, "Lucifer" as a name or concept does not exist in Hebrew scriptures. The term comes from the Latin Vulgate translation of Isaiah 14:12, where Jerome used lucifer (meaning "light-bearer" or "morning star") to translate the Hebrew word הֵילֵל (Helel).
The first known use of "Lucifer" as a translation of Helel (הֵילֵל) in Isaiah 14:12 appears in the Latin Vulgate, translated by Saint Jerome around 382–405 AD.
Hebrew Understanding Before 1 BC
Helel ben Shachar (הֵילֵל בֶּן־שָׁחַר) – Found only in Isaiah 14:12, this phrase means "Shining one, son of the dawn." It describes the downfall of the king of Babylon, not Satan.
Babylonian Context – The passage in Isaiah 14 is a taunt against a Babylonian king (likely Nebuchadnezzar or a previous ruler), who exalted himself but would be humiliated and cast down.
No Satanic Association – Before the Greek influence and later Christian interpretation, Jews did not associate Helel with Satan. The idea of Satan as a fallen angel comes later, influenced by Greek and Christian thought.
Jewish Understanding of "Helel" Before 1 BC
The passage in Isaiah was understood as a human king's arrogance and downfall, not as a reference to a rebellious angel.