ὁμοιάζω

I am like, resemble

Definition

The verb ὁμοιάζω means 'to be like' or 'to resemble,' indicating a similarity or likeness between two things or persons. In its single New Testament occurrence, it describes a person's speech or accent being identified as characteristic of a particular group, specifically Peter's Galilean accent marking him as a follower of Jesus (Mark 14:70). While this is its only biblical use, in broader Greek literature it could denote resemblance in appearance, character, or quality. The word focuses on the state or quality of being alike, rather than the act of comparison itself.

Biblical Usage

ὁμοιάζω is used only once in the New Testament, in Mark 14:70. In this narrative context, bystanders accuse Peter of being a disciple of Jesus because his speech 'resembles' or 'is like' that of a Galilean. The usage highlights how a person's manner of speech can betray their origin or affiliation. It is employed in a direct, accusatory statement within a dramatic scene of denial, serving to identify Peter through a characteristic trait.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective ὅμοιος (homoios, G3664), meaning 'like' or 'similar.' The verb form ὁμοιάζω is built by adding the common verb-forming suffix -άζω, which often creates verbs meaning 'to be or act like' the root word. Thus, it literally means 'to be like' or 'to make like.' It is cognate with other 'likeness' words in Greek, such as ὁμοιόω (homoióō, G3666), which more often means 'to make like' or 'to compare.'

Semantic Range

While ὁμοιάζω itself is not a theologically loaded term, its sole use in Mark 14:70 carries significant narrative and theological weight. It underscores the theme of identification with Jesus, even in failure. Peter's accent 'resembling' a Galilean's inadvertently testifies to his connection with Jesus, who was also from Galilee. This moment of involuntary resemblance contrasts with Peter's verbal denial, highlighting the tension between outward association and inward faith. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by focusing on how identity markers can betray a deeper truth about discipleship.

In the first-century Jewish context, regional accents were strong identifiers of one's origin. Galilee was viewed by some in Jerusalem as a less sophisticated, rural region. Peter's Galilean accent immediately marked him as an outsider in the Jerusalem courtyard. The accusation based on his speech 'resembling' a Galilean's relies on this cultural awareness of dialectal differences. The word's use assumes a setting where such linguistic cues were instantly recognizable and carried social implications.

ὁμοιόω (homoióō, G3666) — often means 'to make like,' 'to liken,' or 'to compare,' sometimes involving a more active or parabolic comparison (e.g., Matthew 7:24, 11:16). ἔοικα (eoika, G1503) — a perfect tense form used as a present, meaning 'to be like,' often implying a natural or inherent resemblance. παραβολή (parabolē, G3850) — a 'parable' or 'comparison,' focusing on the illustrative story or saying drawn from a likeness.

Word Details

Scripture References