### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eikṓn**, represented by `{{G1504}}`, defines a **likeness**, **representation**, or **resemblance**. It appears **23 times** across **20 unique verses**, encompassing both literal objects, such as a statue or profile, and the figurative representation of a person or divine being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1504}}` is used in several distinct ways. Literally, it refers to the **image** on a coin, as when Jesus asks whose **image** and superscription is on the penny ([[Matthew 22:20]], [[Mark 12:16]]). Figuratively, it is used to describe idolatry, where the glory of God is exchanged for an **image** made to look like corruptible man, birds, and beasts [[Romans 1:23]]. This theme is prominent in Revelation, where those who worship the **image** of the beast face torment [[Revelation 14:11]], and the saints are those who have not worshipped his **image** [[Revelation 20:4]]. The most significant use of the term is to identify Christ as the very **image** of the invisible God [[Colossians 1:15]] and the **image** of God whose glorious gospel shines forth [[2 Corinthians 4:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G1504}}`:
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory): This word is frequently contrasted with or linked to `{{G1504}}`. Humanity exchanged the **glory** of God for an **image** [[Romans 1:23]], while man is described as the **image** and **glory** of God [[1 Corinthians 11:7]].
* `{{G4352}}` **proskynéō** (worship): This term defines the action directed toward an `{{G1504}}`, distinguishing true worship from false. Many passages in Revelation describe the damnation of those who **worship** the **image** of the beast ([[Revelation 14:9]], [[Revelation 19:20]]).
* `{{G4832}}` **sýmmorphos** (conformed to): This word explains the process by which believers are shaped to reflect a divine `{{G1504}}`. Believers are predestinated to be **conformed** to the **image** of His Son [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G3339}}` **metamorphóō** (transform): This describes the change that occurs in believers as they behold the Lord's glory, being **changed** into the same **image** [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1504}}` is centered on representation and identity, both divine and human.
* **Christ as the Perfect Image:** Christ is the ultimate revelation of God to humanity, described as "the **image** of the invisible God" [[Colossians 1:15]]. He is the perfect representation, making the unseen God seen.
* **Humanity's Mandate and Failure:** Man is created as the **image** and glory of God [[1 Corinthians 11:7]]. However, humanity fell into sin, exchanging God's glory for a corruptible **image** [[Romans 1:23]].
* **The Believer's Transformation:** Redemption involves a restoration of this image. Believers are predestined to be conformed to the **image** of Christ [[Romans 8:29]], put on the new man which is renewed after the **image** of the Creator [[Colossians 3:10]], and ultimately bear the **image** of the heavenly [[1 Corinthians 15:49]].
* **The Antithesis of Idolatry:** The worship of the beast's **image** in Revelation is the final, ultimate form of idolatry, standing in direct opposition to the worship of God through His true **image**, Jesus Christ [[Revelation 20:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1504}}` is a crucial theological term that moves from the literal to the profound. It establishes Christ as the perfect likeness of the Father, defines humanity's original purpose and its restored destiny in Christ, and serves as the benchmark against which all false worship and idolatry are judged. The concept of the **image** is central to understanding who God is, who Christ is, and what believers are called to become.
TRV