### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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