### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kenós**, represented by `{{G2756}}`, is a primary word meaning **empty**. It appears **18 times** in **16 unique verses**. The base definition is "empty (literally or figuratively):--empty, (in) vain." This term is used to describe both a literal, physical void and a figurative lack of substance, truth, or effectiveness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblically, `{{G2756}}` is applied in both literal and figurative contexts. In a literal sense, it describes being sent away with nothing, as when the rich are "sent **empty** away" [[Luke 1:53]] or when servants are beaten and sent away **empty** from the vineyard ([[Mark 12:3]]; [[Luke 20:10]]). Figuratively, it denotes futility and emptiness of meaning. Paul warns against "**vain** deceit" [[Colossians 2:8]] and "**vain** words" [[Ephesians 5:6]]. The term is also used to describe a man whose faith is without substance, asking, "O **vain** man, that faith without works is dead?" [[James 2:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which **kenós** is used:
* `{{G1821}}` **exapostéllō** (to send away forth, i.e. (on a mission) to despatch, or (peremptorily) to dismiss:--send (away, forth, out)): This verb is often used alongside `{{G2756}}` to describe the action of dismissing someone empty-handed, as seen when the rich are sent away **empty** [[Luke 1:53]].
* `{{G539}}` **apátē** (delusion:--deceit(-ful, -fulness), deceivableness(-ving)): This noun for delusion is paired with `{{G2756}}` to describe philosophy and tradition that are characterized by "**vain** deceit" [[Colossians 2:8]].
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead (literally or figuratively; also as noun):--dead): This word is used to describe the state of faith that is without works, directly connecting the concept of a "**vain** man" to a faith that is **dead** [[James 2:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2756}}` underscores the difference between true and false substance.
* **Worthless Labor:** The word is used to describe work or effort that lacks divine purpose. Paul expresses his hope that his labor is not in **vain** [[Philippians 2:16]] and assures believers that their labor in the Lord is never in **vain** [[1 Corinthians 15:58]]. This contrasts human effort with Spirit-empowered service.
* **Empty Doctrine:** `{{G2756}}` is used to warn against hollow philosophies and deceptive teachings. Believers are cautioned not to be deceived by "**vain** words" [[Ephesians 5:6]] or spoiled by "**vain** deceit" that follows human traditions [[Colossians 2:8]].
* **Foundation of Faith:** The most critical use of the term is in relation to the resurrection. If Christ has not been raised, then preaching is **vain** and faith is also **vain** [[1 Corinthians 15:14]]. The resurrection is presented as the singular event that fills faith with substance and power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2756}}` is a versatile term that illustrates emptiness in both a physical and spiritual sense. It ranges from the literal sending away of servants with nothing [[Mark 12:3]] to the profound spiritual consequence of a faith detached from the resurrection of Christ [[1 Corinthians 15:14]]. Through its usage, **kenós** serves as a stark reminder to distinguish between that which is hollow, deceptive, and futile, and that which is filled with divine truth and eternal purpose.