### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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