satyr Summary and Overview

hairy one. Mentioned in Greek mythology as a creature composed of a man and a goat, supposed to inhabit wild and desolate regions. The Hebrew word is rendered also "goat" (Lev. 4:24) and "devil", i.e., an idol in the form of a goat (17:7; 2 Chr. 11:15). When it is said (Isa. 13:21; compare 34:14) "the satyrs shall dance there," the meaning is that the place referred to shall become a desolate waste. Some render the Hebrew word "baboon," a species of which is found in Babylonia.

(sa'tyr or sat'yr), a sylvan deity or demigod of Greek mythology, represented as a monster, part man and part goat. #Isa 13:21; 34:14| The Hebrew word signifies "hairy" or "rough," and is frequently applied to "he-goats." In the passages cited it probably refers to demons of woods and desert places. Comp. #Le 17:7; 2Ch 11:15|

SA'TYR , a fabled creature of Greek mythology, compounded of a man and a goat, and supposed to be the deity of forests and rural places. Isa 13:21; Isa 34:14. The expression "satyrs shall dance there," etc., denotes that the place shall become as a rude, wild, uncultivated waste. It is possible that after the desolation of Babylon some species of ape or baboon may have been found in that region, and may be meant by this word.