### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **homoíōsis**, represented by `{{G3669}}`, means **similitude** or resemblance. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage in scripture highly specific. The term conveys the idea of assimilation or being made like something else.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3669}}` is in [[James 3:9]], where it is foundational to an argument about the power and contradiction of the tongue. The verse contrasts the act of blessing God with the act of cursing human beings. The reason this is a profound contradiction is that **men** `{{G444}}` are **made** `{{G1096}}` after the **similitude** of **God** `{{G2316}}`. This usage elevates the sin of cursing others from a simple insult to an offense against the Creator they resemble.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[James 3:9]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be): This word, meaning to become or come into being, establishes the divine action by which humanity was formed. It is famously used in [[John 1:14]], where "the Word was **made** flesh."
* `{{G2127}}` **eulogéō** (to speak well of): This term for blessing is used for praising God. In [[Ephesians 1:3]], it is noted that God has **blessed** believers with all spiritual blessings.
* `{{G2672}}` **kataráomai** (to execrate): As the direct opposite of blessing, this word means to curse or doom. Its use in [[James 3:9]] is set in opposition to blessing God, a theme also seen when Jesus commands his followers to "bless them that **curse** you" [[Matthew 5:44]].
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man-faced): This term for a human being is used generically for mankind. The command in [[James 3:9]] applies to all people because they are all made in God's likeness, as seen in the phrase "glorify your Father which is in heaven" before **men** [[Matthew 5:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3669}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, establishing a critical doctrine.
* **The Image of God:** The core teaching is that humanity is made in the **similitude** of God. This forms the basis for human dignity and value, making an attack on a person an indirect attack on God's likeness [[James 3:9]].
* **The Contradiction of Speech:** The word is used to highlight the hypocrisy of the tongue. Using the same instrument to **bless** `{{G2127}}` God the **Father** `{{G3962}}` and to **curse** `{{G2672}}` His image-bearers is presented as a spiritual impossibility that must be rectified.
* **Reverence for Creation:** By linking humanity's nature to God through **similitude**, the verse demands that reverence for God be extended to a proper, respectful treatment of the people He has made.
### Summary
In summary, **homoíōsis** `{{G3669}}`, though exceptionally rare, carries immense theological significance. Its singular use in [[James 3:9]] provides a powerful and direct statement on the nature of humanity as being made in the **similitude** of God. This concept serves as the very reason why the tongue must be tamed, transforming the act of cursing from a mere social offense into a violation against the divine Creator reflected in every person.
TRV