The Greek word homoíōs, represented by G3668, is an adverb that means similarly or likewise. It appears 30 times across 30 unique verses in the Bible. This term functions as a crucial connector, indicating that a subsequent action, command, or state should be understood in the same manner as what has just been stated. It serves to link parallel ideas, extend instructions to new groups, and draw comparisons between events.
The adverb G3668 homoíōs derives from the adjective G3664 hómoios (similar, like), indicating a fundamental quality of sameness or resemblance. While often translated as "likewise" or "similarly," it carries a nuance of correspondence rather than absolute identity. It suggests that while the entities or actions may be distinct, there is a profound and intended parallel in their nature, manner, or outcome. This allows scripture to extend principles consistently, ensuring that an expectation set for one instance or group is understood to apply with parallel force to another, underscoring a divine order where actions and consequences often mirror one another.
In scripture, G3668 is used to establish clear parallels in both instruction and narrative. It is frequently employed to apply a command to a new group, creating mutual responsibility. For instance, after instructing wives, the command is extended: likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge 1 Peter 3:7. It also establishes a divine parallel, with Jesus explaining that whatever the Father does, "the Son doeth likewise" John 5:19. The word is central to the Golden Rule, commanding believers to treat others as they would want to be treated, stating "do ye also to them likewise" Luke 6:31.
Beyond extending commands, G3668 frequently functions in narrative to highlight a pattern of similar events or to draw a direct comparison between distinct occurrences, often for illustrative or admonitory purposes. For instance, in describing the days leading up to the flood, Jesus states, "Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded" Luke 17:28, establishing a clear historical parallel for the suddenness of judgment. Similarly, in the account of Jesus feeding the multitude, after distributing the loaves, he gave them "and fish likewise" John 21:13, showing a parallel provision. This usage emphasizes the consistent nature of divine action or the predictable patterns of human behavior and consequence.
Several related words help to define the context and function of similarity and connection:
- G2531 kathṓs (just as, that): This word often sets up the comparison that G3668 completes. It establishes the standard for the similar action, as seen in the command, "as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise" Luke 6:31.
- G1161 dé (but, and, etc.): As a primary particle indicating continuation or contrast, it frequently appears alongside G3668 to link clauses together grammatically, reinforcing the conceptual link of similarity. It is often translated as "and" or "but" Matthew 6:33.
- G2087 héteros (other or different): This word provides a contrast to similarity. In the same verse where Rahab is described as being justified likewise by her works, it is noted that she sent the messengers out another way James 2:25.
- G3664 hómoios (like, similar): As the adjectival root from which G3668 is derived, hómoios denotes the quality of being similar or alike. G3668 then functions to describe an action or state in a like manner to something previously mentioned, thus establishing a direct adverbial relationship to this foundational concept of likeness.
The theological weight of G3668 is significant, as it underpins key doctrines of reciprocity, divine nature, and universal moral principles.
- Divine Unity: The term is used to articulate the profound unity between the Father and the Son. Jesus' statement that the Son does all things likewise as the Father establishes a principle of perfect imitation and shared essence John 5:19.
- Mutual Obligation: G3668 is instrumental in outlining reciprocal duties within the church and family. Husbands are to render benevolence to their wives, and likewise also the wife unto the husband 1 Corinthians 7:3. Similarly, the younger are to submit to the elder 1 Peter 5:5, creating a structure of mutual subjection.
- Universal Commands: The word extends critical commands to all people. It is used to issue a universal warning that all who do not repent shall likewise perish Luke 13:5. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the command to "Go, and do thou likewise" transforms a story into a timeless moral imperative Luke 10:37.
- Shared Human Condition and Accountability: G3668 underscores the universality of certain human experiences, whether in sin, suffering, or the capacity for righteousness, and the consistent accountability before God. The word highlights that a consequence or expectation applied to one situation is often shared by others in similar circumstances. For example, Jesus warns that "except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish" Luke 13:5, indicating a common fate for the unrepentant. This shared condition also extends to positive acts, as Rahab was "likewise also. justified by works" James 2:25, placing her action in parallel with Abraham's.
The Greek adverb G3668 homoíōs functions as a vital semantic and theological bridge in the New Testament, fundamentally meaning "similarly" or "likewise." Derived from the root homos (same), it conveys a profound sense of correspondence or parallel action rather than mere identical repetition. This nuance allows biblical authors to extend principles, commands, and observations from one context to another, ensuring that divine expectations and human responsibilities are understood as consistently applicable.
Contextually, G3668 is instrumental in establishing patterns within both instructional passages and narrative accounts. It applies commands to new groups, such as husbands following instructions given to wives 1 Peter 3:7, and illuminates the profound unity and shared essence between the Father and the Son in their actions John 5:19. Beyond explicit commands, it marks parallel events in historical accounts, drawing lessons from past judgments or demonstrating consistent divine provision, as seen in the feeding of the multitudes John 21:13.
Theologically, G3668 carries significant weight, articulating doctrines of reciprocity, divine nature, and universal moral principles. It emphasizes mutual obligations within relationships, ensuring that duties are equally extended, as between husband and wife 1 Corinthians 7:3. Furthermore, it highlights a shared human condition and accountability, whether in warnings of universal judgment for the unrepentant Luke 13:5 or in affirming the justification of individuals through parallel acts of faith and works James 2:25.
In essence, G3668 is a powerful linguistic tool that reinforces the coherence and consistency of God's revealed truth. It ensures that readers grasp the interconnectedness of biblical teaching, recognizing that principles of conduct, divine attributes, and the consequences of human actions resonate across diverse situations and individuals, binding the tapestry of scripture together with threads of profound similarity and consistent application.
TRV