### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G3662, *homoiázō* (ὁμοιάζω), derives from the adjective `{{G3664}}` *homoios*, meaning "like" or "similar." At its core, *homoiázō* signifies "to be like," "to resemble," or "to be similar to." The Strong's definition includes "agree," which highlights a specific nuance of resemblance: not merely superficial likeness, but a correspondence or conformity in nature, characteristic, or expression. It implies a matching quality where one thing is in harmony or corresponds with another. The resemblance conveyed by *homoiázō* suggests an observable similarity that can point to an underlying connection or identity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb *homoiázō* appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Mark:
* **[[Mark 14:70]]**: In the account of Peter's denial of Jesus, after a servant girl identifies him as one of Jesus' followers, Peter denies it. Later, others confront him, saying, "Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean, and your speech *agrees* with theirs" (καὶ ἡ λαλιά σου ὁμοιάζει). Here, *homoiázō* describes the resemblance of Peter's dialect or accent to that of the Galileans, specifically those associated with Jesus. This auditory resemblance serves as a tell-tale sign of his origin and, by extension, his affiliation. The "agreement" or "resemblance" is a concrete, observable characteristic that points to Peter's identity as a Galilean, and by implication, a follower of Jesus. The context underscores how even subtle resemblances can reveal deep-seated connections.
### Related Words & Concepts
*Homoiázō* belongs to a significant family of Greek words stemming from the root *homoios* (`{{G3664}}`). Understanding these related terms enriches the appreciation of G3662:
* `{{G3664}}` *homoios*: The foundational adjective, meaning "like, similar, of the same kind."
* `{{G3663}}` *homoioma* (or `{{G3669}}`): A noun meaning "likeness," "form," or "resemblance," often referring to an image, copy, or representation (e.g., [[Romans 1:23]], [[Romans 5:14]], [[Philippians 2:7]]).
* `{{G3667}}` *homoioō*: A verb meaning "to make like," "to liken," or "to compare." This verb emphasizes the act of creating similarity, whereas *homoiázō* denotes the state of being similar.
* `{{G3668}}` *homoiotēs*: A noun meaning "likeness" or "similarity" (e.g., [[Hebrews 7:15]]).
These words collectively explore the concept of resemblance, whether it be in form, nature, or characteristic, and are pivotal in various theological discussions.
### Theological Significance
While *homoiázō* itself, with its single occurrence describing a linguistic resemblance, does not carry profound theological weight in isolation, it points to a broader and deeply significant biblical concept: "likeness" or "resemblance." This concept is fundamental to several key theological doctrines:
* **The Imago Dei (Image of God):** Humanity is created in the "image" and "likeness" of God (e.g., [[Genesis 1:26]], [[Genesis 5:1]], [[James 3:9]]). While different Greek words (e.g., *eikōn*, *homoioma*) are used in the Septuagint and New Testament for "image" and "likeness," the underlying concept of humanity bearing a resemblance to its Creator is central. This likeness speaks to our unique spiritual and moral capacity, reflecting God's character.
* **Christ as the Image of God:** Jesus Christ is presented as the perfect "image of the invisible God" ([[Colossians 1:15]]) and the "exact imprint of his nature" ([[Hebrews 1:3]]). His very being perfectly *resembles* the Father, revealing the divine nature to humanity.
* **Sanctification and Transformation:** Believers are called to be conformed to the "image" of Christ ([[Romans 8:29]]) and to become "like" Him ([[1 John 3:2]]). This speaks to the process of spiritual growth and sanctification, where the believer's character, actions, and very being are progressively transformed to *resemble* Christ's. Just as Peter's speech *resembled* that of Jesus' followers because he *was* one, so too are believers called to *resemble* Christ in their lives because they *belong* to Him and are being renewed in His likeness.
### Summary
The Greek verb G3662, *homoiázō* (ὁμοιάζω), meaning "to resemble" or "to be like," is derived from `{{G3664}}` *homoios* ("like, similar"). Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Mark 14:70]] describes Peter's Galilean accent *agreeing* with or *resembling* that of Jesus' followers, thereby revealing his identity. Though limited in its direct biblical usage, *homoiázō* serves as a linguistic illustration of the broader theological concept of "likeness" or "resemblance." This concept is foundational to understanding humanity's creation in God's image, Christ's perfect representation of the Father, and the believer's ongoing transformation into the likeness of Christ. Thus, even a seemingly minor word like *homoiázō* quietly reinforces the profound biblical truth that outward resemblance often signifies a deeper, intrinsic connection or identity.
TRV