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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies, as they illuminate the nuances and subtleties embedded in the text. The term ὁμοιόω (homoioō) is particularly significant, appearing in Matthew 6:8, where Jesus emphasizes that God knows what His followers need before they ask. This concept of likeness or similarity is essential for comprehending the relationship between believers and God, as well as the implications of prayer and divine understanding. By studying ὁμοιόω, we gain insights into both the theological themes in the New Testament and the cultural values of ancient Greek society.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὁμοιόω (homoioō) [ho-my-oh’-o]

Etymology: The word is derived from the root ὅμοιος (homoios), meaning “similar” or “like,” combined with the verb-forming suffix -ῶ (ō). This formation indicates the action of making similar or resembling something.

Part of Speech: Verb; it is used to describe the action of making something similar or to express similarity.

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Defining Meanings

To Make Similar

The primary meaning of ὁμοιόω is “to make similar” or “to liken.” This verb conveys the action of rendering one thing comparable to another in terms of qualities or characteristics.

To Resemble

Another meaning of ὁμοιόω is “to resemble.” This usage indicates a state of likeness or similarity without necessarily implying a transformation.

To Compare

Additionally, the term can imply “to compare,” focusing on evaluating two or more subjects based on their shared attributes.

Exploring Similar Words

ὅμοιος (homoios) [ho-my’-os]: This adjective means “similar” or “like.” While ὁμοιόω is an action (to make similar), ὅμοιος describes the state of being similar.

ὁμοιοπαθής (homoipathēs) [ho-my-o-path’-ace]: This word translates to “similar in suffering” or “having the same passions.” It emphasizes shared emotional or experiential states, contrasting with ὁμοιόω, which is more general.

ἀναλογία (analogía) [an-al-og-ee’-ah]: Meaning “analogy” or “proportion,” this noun refers to a relationship of correspondence between two things. Unlike ὁμοιόω, which focuses on making similar, ἀναλογία highlights the nature of that similarity in a comparative context.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, ὁμοιόω possesses specific morphological features relevant to its grammatical use.

Tense, Voice, Mood: ὁμοιόω is typically used in the present tense, indicating an ongoing action. It is commonly used in the active voice and can appear in different moods, including indicative and subjunctive.

Person and Number: The verb can be conjugated in various persons and numbers:

• 1st Person Singular: ὁμοιόω (I make similar)

• 2nd Person Singular: ὁμοιών (you make similar)

• 3rd Person Singular: ὁμοιώ (he/she/it makes similar)

Aspect: ὁμοιόω primarily carries an imperfective aspect, which emphasizes the ongoing nature of the action of making similar. This aspect is crucial for expressing processes or actions that occur over time.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Various Greek lexicons provide unique insights into the meaning and significance of ὁμοιόω. In the context of the New Testament, particularly in Matthew 6:8, the verb emphasizes God’s intimate understanding of human needs, which enhances the theological implications of prayer. Lexicons highlight that ὁμοιόω encapsulates not only the act of making similar but also the relational dynamics between God and humanity. This understanding is essential for interpreting the text and its application to the lives of believers.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Matthew 6:8: “Therefore do not be like them; for your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.” (Implied similarity with ὁμοιόω)

• Luke 6:31: “And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.” (Similar concept of relational action)

• Philippians 2:7: “But made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness (ὁμοιόω) of men.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text

Plato Republic “The soul is most similar (ὁμοιόω) to the divine and eternal.”

Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics “Virtue consists in finding a mean that is similar (ὁμοιόω) to our desires.”

Thucydides History of the Peloponnesian War “The factions in the city were likened (ὁμοιόω) to opposing armies.”

Septuagint Genesis 1:26 “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness (ὁμοιόω).”

Septuagint Psalms 73:20 “As a dream when one awakes, so, O Lord, when You awake, You shall despise their image (ὁμοιόω).”

Septuagint Isaiah 40:18 “To whom then will you liken God? Or what likeness will you compare (ὁμοιόω) to Him?”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὁμοιόω (homoioō) signifies the action of making something similar or likening it to another, encapsulating themes of resemblance and relational dynamics within biblical and classical literature. Its usage in Matthew emphasizes the closeness of God’s understanding of human needs, affirming the idea that He is intimately aware of and involved in the lives of believers. By examining the morphological characteristics of ὁμοιόω and its connections to similar Greek terms, we gain a richer understanding of its significance in the early Christian context and its relevance in the broader landscape of ancient Greek culture.

Did You Know?

Cultural Importance of Likeness: In ancient Greek society, the concept of similarity played a crucial role in philosophical discussions about identity and ethics, influencing how individuals viewed their relationships with others.

Relational Dynamics: The use of ὁμοιόω in the New Testament reflects the importance of understanding relationships, particularly in the context of prayer and divine interaction, which were central to the faith of early Christians.

Philosophical Connections: The exploration of similarity in classical thought often intersected with moral considerations, emphasizing the significance of shared traits and actions in the formation of personal and communal identities.