κενόω

I empty, deprive of content, make unreal

Definition

The verb κενόω fundamentally means 'to empty' or 'to make void.' In the New Testament, it carries two primary senses. First, it can mean to deprive something of its proper content, power, or effect, as when faith is 'made void' and the promise is 'nullified' (Romans 4:14). Second, and most famously, it describes Christ's self-humbling act of taking on human nature, 'emptying' himself by taking the form of a servant (Philippians 2:7). In other contexts, it refers to rendering something ineffective or pointless, such as making the cross of Christ 'empty' of its power (1 Corinthians 1:17) or a boast 'empty' (1 Corinthians 9:15).

Biblical Usage

This word is used five times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles. Paul employs it to argue theological points about the nullification of promises (Romans 4:14) or the gospel's power (1 Corinthians 1:17). It also appears in personal defense regarding his apostolic rights (1 Corinthians 9:15) and in encouraging generosity (2 Corinthians 9:3). Its most profound usage is in the Christological hymn of Philippians 2:7, describing the incarnation. The pattern shows it is used for both abstract concepts (voiding a promise) and a concrete, historical act (Christ's self-emptying).

Etymology

Derived from the adjective κενός (kenos, G2756), meaning 'empty,' 'vain,' or 'without content.' The verb form κενόω literally means 'to make empty' or 'to empty out.' This root idea of emptiness or lack of substance is consistent across its uses, whether speaking of something being rendered ineffective or of a personal act of self-renunciation.

Semantic Range

This word is critically important for Christology, particularly in the doctrine of the incarnation as presented in Philippians 2:5-11 (the 'kenosis'). It describes Jesus's voluntary act of humility in setting aside the independent use of his divine prerogatives to become human and die for sinners. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the profound, voluntary self-sacrifice at the heart of the gospel. It also informs our understanding of how human actions can 'nullify' God's promises or grace, emphasizing human responsibility.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'emptying' could carry negative connotations of being deprived, worthless, or futile. Paul's use in Philippians 2:7 subverts this, presenting Christ's 'emptying' not as a loss of essence but as a purposeful, loving act of humility and service—a radical contrast to the cultural pursuit of honor, status, and self-assertion. This reframes greatness as found in sacrificial service.

κενός (kenos, G2756) — The adjective meaning 'empty' or 'vain,' describing a state rather than the act. μωραίνω (mōrainō, G3471) — 'to make foolish' or 'nullify'; focuses on rendering something foolish rather than simply empty. ἀθετέω (atheteō, G114) — 'to set aside, nullify, reject'; emphasizes active rejection or invalidation of an agreement or promise.

Word Details

Scripture References