κενός

empty, vain, hollow

Definition

The Greek adjective κενός primarily means 'empty' in a literal sense, as seen when the vineyard tenants in Jesus' parable beat and send away the owner's servant 'empty-handed' (Mark 12:3, Luke 20:10-11). More significantly, it carries a strong metaphorical meaning of being 'vain,' 'hollow,' or 'without true substance or effect.' In a theological context, it describes something that is ineffective or devoid of power, such as a 'vain' faith (1 Corinthians 15:14) or labor that is not 'in vain' in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). It can also imply something false or pretentious, as in 'empty deceit' (Colossians 2:8).

Biblical Usage

κενός is used 16 times in the New Testament, appearing in Gospels, Acts, and the Pauline epistles. In the Gospels (Mark, Luke), it describes the literal emptiness of being sent away with nothing. In Acts 4:25, it translates a Psalm, describing the futile plans of nations. The Apostle Paul employs it most frequently and theologically, especially in 1 Corinthians 15, to argue against a 'vain' faith and for the certainty of resurrection, assuring believers their work is not 'vain' or worthless in Christ.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek root κενός, meaning 'empty' or 'void.' It is related to the verb κενόω (kenoō, G2758), meaning 'to empty' or 'make void,' famously used in Philippians 2:7 for Christ 'emptying' himself. The core concept is a lack of content, substance, or true result.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding the nature of faith, hope, and Christian labor. Paul's argument in 1 Corinthians 15 hinges on it: if Christ is not raised, faith is κενός—utterly empty and ineffective. Conversely, because Christ is risen, our labor in Him has eternal substance and is not κενός. It contrasts human vanity with divine purpose, warning against hollow religion (Colossians 2:8) and affirming the solid reality of the gospel.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'vanity' or 'emptiness' was a common philosophical theme, describing the futile pursuits of life apart from wisdom or virtue. The biblical use taps into this understanding but redirects it: true substance and purpose are found not in abstract philosophy but in the historical reality of Christ's resurrection and the work done in His name.

μάταιος (mataios, G3152) — focuses on being aimless, futile, or lacking purpose, often used for idolatry. κενόδοξος (kenodoxos, G2755) — means 'vainglorious,' literally 'empty of opinion/glory,' describing boastful pride.

Word Details

Scripture References