The Hebrew word *dmuwth* (H1823), often translated as "likeness," appears in various contexts to denote resemblance or similarity in form and shape. In Ezekiel 1, this term is used repeatedly to describe the appearance of living creatures and other elements, emphasizing a physical likeness to a man or recognizable forms such as a throne. For instance, in Ezekiel 1:5, the living creatures are described as having the likeness of a man, indicating a shared general form and shape. Further, in Ezekiel 1:10, their faces are detailed with specific resemblances, and in Ezekiel 1:13, 1:26, and 1:28, the term continues to highlight visible forms. This usage recurs in Ezekiel 10:1, 10:10, and 10:22, reinforcing the concept of a tangible, observable resemblance. Even scholarly sources, such as the Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible, acknowledge that Ezekiel's descriptions suggest a physical resemblance between man and God, aligning with the concrete implications of *dmuwth*. Additionally, *dmuwth* is synonymous with related terms like *tselem* and the Greek *icon*, all of which consistently point to a direct relationship between the original and its image, underscoring an outward, bodily likeness rather than an abstract or solely spiritual similarity.

God is patiently working with each one of us and, eventually, all mankind to create men in Their image according to Their likeness. In Genesis 1:26, the word "likeness" is Strong's 1823, transliterated as dmuwth from ancient Hebrew. It indicates a resemblance that goes beyond just a shadow, presenting a more concrete similarity compared to the concept of image. This likeness reflects God's intention for man to resemble Him from the inside out, beyond a mere outline. Through the breath of life, God gave man the ability to reason and think like He does, though in a limited way, enabling man to consider eternity in our hearts and make choices that fill out the image with substance. Without focusing on Him in truth, however, this likeness becomes less than a vapor, driven by lusts and pride. God expects those who love Him and are called according to His purpose to grow in His image, according to the likeness He intended from the beginning.

The Hebrew word *dmuwth* (H1823), translated as "likeness," is central to understanding the relationship between God and humanity as presented in Scripture. In the Old Testament, particularly in Genesis 1, God declares that man is made in His image and likeness, using both *tselem* (image) and *dmuwth* (likeness). These terms overwhelmingly refer to form and shape in their contextual usage, indicating that man is created in the bodily image of God. To argue that *dmuwth* and *tselem* do not include physical form when applied to God, while accepting that they do when used for idols, is inconsistent, as the same words describe both. The usage of *dmuwth* alongside *tselem* clearly points to an outward, observable similarity, suggesting that God Himself possesses a form and shape akin to that of a man. This understanding is reinforced by numerous biblical accounts where God reveals Himself with a tangible appearance, confirming that *dmuwth* encompasses a physical likeness as part of His revelation to humanity.