כְּמוֹ

כְּמוֹ

a form of the prefix 'k-', but used separately as, thus, so

Definition

The Hebrew word כְּמוֹ (kᵉmôw) is a comparative particle meaning 'like,' 'as,' or 'according to.' It is used to draw comparisons, express similarity, or indicate manner. For example, in Genesis 19:15, it describes the dawn rising 'like' (כְּמוֹ) the morning, establishing a simile. In legal or conditional contexts, such as Genesis 34:15, it introduces a standard or condition: 'if you will become as we are.' It can also function adverbially to mean 'thus' or 'so,' as seen in Genesis 44:18, where Judah speaks 'according to' or 'in the manner of' his lord.

Biblical Usage

כְּמוֹ appears 124 times across the Old Testament, with notable frequency in narrative and poetic books like Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, and Proverbs. It is commonly used to introduce similes, comparisons of appearance or action (e.g., Exodus 9:24 describes hail 'such as' had never been in Egypt). In legal or covenantal contexts, it sets conditions or standards, as in Genesis 34:15. The word also appears in expressions of worth or value, such as in comparisons of equivalence.

Etymology

כְּמוֹ is derived from the common Hebrew prefix כְּ־ (kᵉ-), meaning 'like' or 'as,' but functions as an independent particle. It is related to כֵּן (kēn, H3651), meaning 'so' or 'thus,' indicating a shared semantic field of comparison and manner. The form כָּמוֹ (kāmôw) is a variant. Its development reflects a specialization from a prefixed element to a standalone comparative term.

Semantic Range

As a comparative particle, כְּמוֹ is not inherently theological but serves a crucial grammatical function in biblical language. It enriches reading by highlighting how biblical authors use comparison to reveal character, divine action, or covenant conditions. For instance, in Exodus 9:14, God says He will send plagues 'like' none before, emphasizing His unmatched power. Understanding such comparisons deepens appreciation for literary and theological nuances in descriptions of God, humanity, and relationships. In ancient Hebrew culture, comparative language like כְּמוֹ was essential for teaching, legal discourse, and poetic expression, often relying on concrete imagery from daily life (e.g., weather, kinship). Its usage to set conditions, as in Genesis 34:15, reflects a societal emphasis on covenantal agreements and social integration. Modern readers might overlook the weight of such comparisons in establishing identity or obligation. כְּ־ (kᵉ-, H3651) — a prefixed form meaning 'like,' used attached to words, whereas כְּמוֹ is independent. כֵּן (kēn, H3651) — means 'so' or 'thus,' often for affirmation or manner, less for direct comparison. כְּאָשֶׁר (kᵉ'āšer, H834) — means 'according as' or 'just as,' used for more specific correspondence or temporal sequence.

Word Details