The Hebrew word dimyôwn, represented by H1825, signifies resemblance. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. The word is used idiomatically to mean like, drawing a direct comparison.
The sole appearance of H1825 is in Psalms 17:12, where it is used to construct a powerful simile. The verse describes an enemy's nature by saying they are "like a lion that is greedy of his prey." This comparison immediately establishes a tone of predatory danger, portraying the subject as patiently lurking H3427 in secret places H4565, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.
The imagery in the verse is built upon several key descriptive words:
- H738 'ărîy (a lion): This word defines the object of the comparison. It is often used to symbolize a powerful and destructive force, such as the lion from the forest that will slay the people for their transgressions Jeremiah 5:6.
- H3700 kâçaph (be greedy, long, desire): This term describes the intense longing of the predator. It can also describe a deep, personal longing, as when a family member "sore longedst" after his father's house Genesis 31:30.
- H3427 yâshab (to sit down, dwell, remain, lurking): While used in Psalms 17:12 to mean lurking, this word more broadly means to dwell or remain. It is used positively to describe the one who "dwelleth in the secret place of the most High" Psalms 91:1.
Though appearing only once, the use of H1825 carries significant conceptual weight within its context:
- The Power of Simile: The word's function is to make an abstract threat concrete. By creating a direct comparison to a lion H738, it paints a clear picture of a powerful, dangerous, and predatory enemy.
- Describing Malicious Intent: The simile goes beyond a simple comparison of strength. It qualifies the lion as being greedy H3700 for prey and lurking H3427 in secret places H4565, highlighting the hidden and malicious nature of the psalmist's foe.
- A Cry for Help: Used within a Psalm, this vivid imagery serves to underscore the gravity of the psalmist's situation. The description of the enemy as a lurking lion amplifies the plea for divine deliverance from a seemingly imminent and deadly threat.
In summary, dimyôwn H1825 is a highly specific term for resemblance whose sole biblical use is to construct a powerful simile. In Psalms 17:12, it functions as the critical link, comparing a foe to a lion that is both greedy and lurking. This single use demonstrates how a word for "like" can be used to create a vivid and threatening image, defining the nature of an enemy and amplifying the desperation of the plea for deliverance.
TRV