### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word דִּמְיוֹן (dimyôwn, `{{H1825}}`) is derived from the root דָּמָה (damah, `{{H1819}}`), which carries the primary meaning "to be like," "to resemble," or "to compare." As a noun, dimyôwn specifically denotes "resemblance," "likeness," or "similitude." It emphasizes the quality of being similar in appearance, form, or characteristic to something else, without necessarily implying identity. Its semantic range is narrow, focused solely on the concept of comparative similarity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Remarkably, דִּמְיוֹן (dimyôwn, `{{H1825}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Psalms:
* **Psalm 17:12**: "His likeness is like a lion eager to tear, and like a young lion lurking in ambush." (ESV translation, "like a lion" for דִּמְיוֹן)
* In this sole occurrence, dimyôwn is used in a vivid simile to describe the enemies of the psalmist (David). The phrase "His likeness is like a lion" (כְּדִמְיֹנוֹ כְּאַרְיֵה) powerfully conveys the predatory, aggressive, and stealthy nature of the adversaries. The word functions as a strong comparative, drawing an explicit parallel between the enemies' intent and actions and those of a ravenous lion. The context is a prayer for deliverance, where David graphically portrays the danger he faces, highlighting the fierce and relentless pursuit by his foes. The singular use here underscores the intensity of the comparison, emphasizing the *very likeness* to a dangerous predator.
### Related Words & Concepts
דִּמְיוֹן (dimyôwn, `{{H1825}}`) is directly linked to its root דָּמָה (damah, `{{H1819}}`), which means "to be like, resemble, imagine, devise." This root is foundational to several other significant terms related to likeness and comparison in the Hebrew Bible:
* דְּמוּת (demûth, `{{H1823}}`): This is arguably the most theologically significant derivative, appearing frequently and notably in the context of humanity being created in the "likeness" of God ([[Genesis 1:26]], [[Genesis 5:1]]). While dimyôwn is rare and descriptive, demûth carries profound theological weight regarding divine image and representation.
* דָּמֶה (dameh, `{{H1824}}`): Another rare noun from the same root, also meaning "likeness," appearing in [[Isaiah 13:4]].
* Concepts of simile and metaphor are inherent in the use of dimyôwn, as it serves to draw a direct comparison between two distinct entities. This highlights the biblical authors' use of rich, evocative language to convey spiritual truths and human experiences.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular occurrence in [[Psalm 17:12]], the direct theological significance of דִּמְיוֹן (dimyôwn, `{{H1825}}`) is limited. It does not carry the same profound theological weight as its cognate דְּמוּת (`{{H1823}}`) in discussions of the *imago Dei*.
However, its use in [[Psalm 17:12]] contributes to the theological understanding of human experience in a fallen world. The psalmist's enemies are portrayed with a stark, animalistic ferocity, underscoring the reality of evil and the predatory nature of those who oppose God's righteous ones. In this context, dimyôwn serves to vividly illustrate the existential threat faced by the faithful. It emphasizes the need for divine intervention and protection from those whose actions bear a striking "likeness" to destructive forces. Thus, while not a term of central dogma, it contributes to the biblical portrayal of the conflict between good and evil and the righteous's reliance on God for deliverance.
### Summary
דִּמְיוֹן (dimyôwn, `{{H1825}}`) is a rare Hebrew noun derived from the root דָּמָה (`{{H1819}}`), meaning "to be like" or "to resemble." It signifies "resemblance" or "likeness." Its sole biblical appearance is in [[Psalm 17:12]], where it powerfully describes the psalmist's enemies as having the "likeness" of a ravenous lion, emphasizing their predatory and destructive intent. While limited in its direct theological application compared to related terms like דְּמוּת (`{{H1823}}`), dimyôwn effectively functions as a strong comparative, contributing to the vivid and often stark imagery employed by biblical writers to convey spiritual realities and the struggles of faith. Its rarity enhances the particularity of the comparison it draws, underscoring the severity of the threat described.
TRV