The story of Lucifer’s fall and the rebellion of a portion of the angels is rooted in a few scriptural passages that have been interpreted through the years to provide insight into these events.

In Isaiah 14:12-15, the figure of Lucifer (often interpreted as “morning star” or “son of the dawn”) is depicted in a manner that many scholars and theologians associate with the fall of Satan. The passage reads: “How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ But you are brought down to the realm of the dead, to the depths of the pit.”

Similarly, Ezekiel 28:12-17 provides a lament for the king of Tyre, which many interpret allegorically as referring to the fall of Satan due to his pride and rebellion against God. It speaks of the figure being perfect in beauty, full of wisdom, and perfect in his ways from the day he was created until wickedness was found in him. Because of his pride and his trading, he was filled with violence and sinned, so God cast him out.

The New Testament book of Revelation 12:7-9 gives a more direct account of a celestial conflict: “And there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”

These passages, taken together, have led to the understanding that Lucifer, due to pride and a desire to ascend above his station, led a rebellion against God. As a result, he and the angels who followed him were expelled from heaven. This story illustrates the dangers of pride and rebellion against God’s ordained order and serves as a reminder of the righteousness and justice of God in maintaining the holiness and purity of His domain.