παρόμοιος

like, similar

Definition

The adjective παρόμοιος means 'like,' 'similar,' or 'resembling.' It describes a state of being analogous or comparable to something else, often in terms of quality, form, or character. In its two New Testament occurrences, both in Mark 7, it is used to describe human traditions that have become 'like' or 'similar to' divine commandments in their authority and observance (Mark 7:8, 13). The word implies a close approximation that can lead to confusion or substitution.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 7:8, 13). In these verses, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and scribes for holding to human traditions while neglecting God's commands. He states they have made their traditions 'like' (παρόμοιος) the commandment of God, indicating they treat these man-made rules with a similar level of reverence and obligation, thereby invalidating God's word.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek preposition παρά (para, meaning 'beside') and the adjective ὅμοιος (homoios, meaning 'like' or 'similar'). It literally means 'beside-like' or 'closely similar.' It intensifies the sense of resemblance found in ὅμοιος, suggesting a likeness that is placed right alongside something for comparison.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights a critical spiritual danger: elevating human teachings or traditions to a status 'similar to' divine revelation. In Mark 7, Jesus uses it to expose how religious tradition can supplant or nullify God's actual commands (Mark 7:13). Understanding this Greek term enriches Bible reading by clarifying the nature of the conflict—it's not about tradition itself, but about granting it a parallel authority that belongs to God alone, a key concept in discussions of biblical authority and sola Scriptura.

In the 1st-century Jewish context, the oral traditions of the elders (later compiled as the Mishnah) were highly valued. Jesus's use of παρόμοιος directly challenges this cultural norm by asserting that these traditions, however longstanding, are merely human constructs. The cultural force of his statement lies in equating the veneration of tradition with the potential to 'leave the commandment of God.'

ὅμοιος (homoios, G3664) — The root word, meaning simply 'like' or 'similar,' without the intensified sense of close, parallel comparison. ἴσος (isos, G2470) — Often means 'equal' in quantity or status, a stronger assertion than mere similarity.

Word Details

Scripture References