### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **homoíōma**, represented by `{{G3667}}`, conveys the concept of **resemblance** or **likeness**. Derived from a word meaning "to make like," it refers to a form or shape that is similar to something else. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, used to describe both physical and abstract similarities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G3667}}` is used to explain profound theological truths. It describes Christ being made in the **likeness** of men [[Philippians 2:7]] and sent in the **likeness** of sinful flesh to condemn sin [[Romans 8:3]]. This highlights his identification with humanity. The word is also central to the believer's experience, who is "planted together in the **likeness** of his death" to also be in the **likeness** of his resurrection [[Romans 6:5]]. In contrast, it is used negatively to describe humanity exchanging the glory of God for an image **made like** corruptible man and animals [[Romans 1:23]]. Finally, it is used to describe the **shapes** of locusts in a prophetic vision [[Revelation 9:7]] and to contrast the nature of sin before the law with the specific **similitude** of Adam's transgression [[Romans 5:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of **likeness** and resemblance:
* `{{G3444}}` **morphḗ** (form): This word appears alongside `{{G3667}}` to describe the incarnation. Christ, existing in the **form** of God, took on the **form** of a servant, being made in the **likeness** of men, showing a connection between essential nature and outward resemblance [[Philippians 2:7]].
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (image): In Romans, people exchanged God's glory for an **image** made in the **likeness** of corruptible things [[Romans 1:23]]. An **eikṓn** is a representation, while **homoíōma** describes its resemblance to the original.
* `{{G5179}}` **týpos** (figure): This term is used in parallel with `{{G3667}}` to establish Adam as a **figure** of Christ. While people sinned differently, not in the **similitude** of Adam's transgression, Adam himself serves as a pattern or **figure** pointing to the one who was to come [[Romans 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3667}}` is significant, particularly in explaining core Christian doctrines:
* **The Incarnation of Christ:** The word is crucial for understanding how the Son of God became human. He came in the **likeness** of men and of sinful flesh, signifying a true yet sinless humanity ([[Philippians 2:7]], [[Romans 8:3]]).
* **Union with Christ:** For believers, being joined to Christ is described as being planted together in the **likeness** of His death, which guarantees a future participation in the **likeness** of His resurrection [[Romans 6:5]].
* **The Nature of Idolatry:** The term is used to define the error of idolatry as creating a false **likeness** of God from corruptible things, a central point in Paul's argument about human sin [[Romans 1:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3667}}` moves beyond a simple notion of similarity. It is a key term for expressing the mystery of the incarnation, the reality of a believer's spiritual union with Christ, and the fundamental error of idolatry. From describing Christ's **likeness** to humanity to the believer's **likeness** to His death and resurrection, **homoíōma** provides a framework for understanding how one thing can correspond to another in both form and substance.
TRV