The Greek word homoióō, represented by G3666, is used to assimilate, compare, or describe something becoming similar. Derived from ὅμοιος (hómoios), meaning like or similar, it appears 17 times across 15 unique verses. Its primary function is to draw comparisons, often to illustrate a spiritual or moral truth.
The most frequent use of G3666 is to introduce parables about the kingdom of God. Jesus repeatedly uses the phrase "the kingdom of heaven is likened" to explain its nature through familiar concepts, such as a man sowing good seed Matthew 13:24, a king taking account of his servants Matthew 18:23, or ten virgins awaiting a bridegroom Matthew 25:1. The word is also used to create contrasts that carry moral weight, such as likening a person who hears and obeys God's sayings to a wise G5429 man who built his house on a rock G4073 Matthew 7:24, while one who does not is likened to a foolish G3474 man who built on sand G285 Matthew 7:26. In a significant theological context, it describes Christ, who "it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren" Hebrews 2:17 to serve as a high priest.
Several related words help clarify the concept of likeness and comparison:
- G3664 hómoios (like, similar): This is the root word from which G3666 is derived. It is often used in parallel, as when Jesus asks, "Unto what is the kingdom of God like G3664? and whereunto shall I resemble G3666 it?" Luke 13:18.
- G3850 parabolḗ (parable, comparison): This noun for a symbolic narrative is frequently paired with G3666. For example, Mark asks, "with what comparison G3850 shall we compare it?" after asking how to liken G3666 the kingdom of God Mark 4:30.
- G1096 gínomai (to become, be made): This verb of becoming is used to show the result of being made like something. It appears with G3666 in the description of Christ needing to be made like his brethren so that he might be G1096 a merciful high priest Hebrews 2:17.
- G1074 geneá (generation, age): This term is often the subject of the comparison. Jesus asks, "whereunto shall I liken G3666 this generation G1074?" before comparing it to children in the marketplace Matthew 11:16.
The theological weight of G3666 is revealed in its application to divine truths and human responsibility.
- Revealing the Kingdom: Its primary theological function is as a vehicle for revelation. The parables that begin "The kingdom of heaven is likened" use comparison to make the abstract realities of God's rule understandable (Matthew 13:24, Matthew 25:1).
- The Incarnation of Christ: The word is central to the doctrine of the incarnation. For Christ to fulfill His role, it was necessary for Him to be made like G3666 humanity in all things, enabling Him to be a merciful G1655 and faithful G4103 high priest who could make reconciliation for sins Hebrews 2:17.
- The Basis of Judgment: Likeness serves as a standard for divine judgment. In Romans, failure to remain God's people would result in being made like unto Sodoma G4670 and Gomorrha G1116 Romans 9:29. Conversely, obedience leads to being likened to a wise man, while disobedience leads to being likened to a foolish one (Matthew 7:24, Matthew 7:26).
In summary, G3666 is more than a simple term for comparison. It is a foundational tool for biblical teaching, used to frame parables, explain the nature of God's kingdom, and articulate the profound mystery of Christ becoming like humanity. It establishes clear moral benchmarks, showing that what we are like—whether a wise builder or a foolish one—has eternal consequences.
TRV