### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parómoios**, represented by `{{G3946}}`, is defined as "alike nearly, i.e. similar" or **like**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is formed from the words παρά and ὅμοιος and is used to describe things that are comparable or of a similar kind.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G3946}}` are found in the book of Mark and are used to critique the elevation of human traditions over divine law. The word describes a category of man-made rules that are followed in place of God's commandments. In [[Mark 7:8]], after listing specific traditions like the **washing** `{{G909}}` of **pots** `{{G3582}}` and **cups** `{{G4221}}`, it is noted that "many other such **like things** ye do." This usage is reinforced in [[Mark 7:13]], which states that by upholding these traditions, people were "making the word of God of none effect," and again concludes, "and many such **like things** do ye."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{G3946}}` appears:
* `{{G3862}}` **parádosis** (tradition): This refers to precepts transmitted by men. It is the core issue being addressed, as people were holding the **tradition** of men (`{{G444}}`) while rejecting God's law [[Mark 7:9]].
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ** (commandment): This is the authoritative prescription from God that was being laid aside. The conflict is between human tradition and God's **commandment** [[Mark 7:8]].
* `{{G208}}` **akyróō** (to invalidate): This word describes the severe consequence of prioritizing man-made rules, as they **make of none effect** the commandment (`{{G1785}}`) of God (`{{G2316}}`) [[Matthew 15:6]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This word for action is used in both verses to describe the practice of these "like things," emphasizing that true obedience involves **doing** the will of God, not just following human customs [[Matthew 7:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3946}}` is significant despite its rare usage. It underscores a critical warning against religious formalism.
* **Supremacy of God's Word:** The term is used to classify actions that, while perhaps having an appearance of piety, ultimately **invalidate** (`{{G208}}`) the **word** (`{{G3056}}`) of **God** (`{{G2316}}`) [[Mark 7:13]].
* **Human versus Divine Authority:** The context sharply contrasts the **tradition** (`{{G3862}}`) of **men** (`{{G444}}`) with the **commandment** (`{{G1785}}`) of **God** (`{{G2316}}`). The "like things" are presented as originating from human authority, not divine will [[Mark 7:8]].
* **The Danger of Ritualism:** The specific examples given, such as the **washing** (`{{G909}}`) of **pots** (`{{G3582}}`) and **cups** (`{{G4221}}`), show how external rituals can displace the commandments of God, leading to actions that are merely "like" true obedience [[Mark 7:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3946}}` is a specific term used to categorize human-derived religious practices that are treated as equal or superior to God's direct commands. Its usage in Mark serves as a potent reminder that traditions of men, even if they seem minor, pose a danger of nullifying the authority of God's word. The word highlights the crucial distinction between performing religious acts and genuine obedience to divine commandments.
TRV