דִּמְיוֹן
resemblance
Definition
The Hebrew noun דִּמְיוֹן (dimyôwn) means 'resemblance' or 'likeness.' It denotes a visual or conceptual similarity between two entities, often implying a comparison. In its sole biblical occurrence, Psalm 17:12, it describes a threatening enemy who is 'like' a lion eager to tear its prey. The word carries the sense of an image or form that corresponds to something else, derived from the root idea of being made like or comparable to another.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Psalm 17:12. In this poetic context, it is employed in a simile to vividly portray the ferocity and intent of David's adversaries, comparing them to a lion. The usage is metaphorical, emphasizing the perceived nature and danger of the enemy through a powerful visual resemblance.
Etymology
Derived from the root דָּמָה (dāmâ, H1819), which means 'to be like, resemble, compare.' דִּמְיוֹן is a noun form that concretizes the abstract concept of likeness. Related words include דְּמוּת (dᵊmûṯ, H1823), meaning 'likeness' or 'form,' often used in more concrete or physical comparisons, such as in Genesis 1:26 ('in our image, after our likeness').
Semantic Range
While used only once, this word connects to the important biblical theme of analogy and representation. Understanding 'resemblance' enriches the reading of poetic texts like the Psalms, where metaphorical language reveals deeper truths about God, humanity, and spiritual conflict. It reminds the reader that biblical descriptions of enemies (or even of God) often use comparative language to convey reality beyond literal terms.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, especially in Hebrew poetry, similes and metaphors using animal imagery (like a lion) were common to describe strength, danger, or character. The concept of 'resemblance' was a key tool for teaching and communication, helping listeners visualize abstract qualities through familiar, concrete images from their environment.
דְּמוּת (dᵊmûṯ, H1823) — Often denotes a more formal or patterned likeness, sometimes physical. תַּבְנִית (taḇnîṯ, H8403) — Refers to a model, pattern, or structure, emphasizing design rather than mere visual similarity.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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