King James Bible
"And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it."
God initiates dialogue with Satan in the heavenly court, asking about his activities despite His omniscience. This rhetorical question establishes the formal, judicial tone of the scene and demonstrates God's sovereign authority even over the adversary. Satan responds directly to God, showing he is accountable to divine authority. The Hebrew term 'satan' means 'adversary' or 'accuser,' and his presence in God's court reflects ancient Near Eastern concepts of a divine council. Satan describes his restless, comprehensive surveillance of the earth, suggesting both his role as observer of human behavior and his active search for those he might accuse. This roaming activity sets up his coming challenge regarding Job's righteousness.