### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kenóō**, represented by `{{G2758}}`, means **to make empty**. It appears 7 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, it conveys the concepts of abasing, neutralizing, or falsifying something, causing it to be made void, of no reputation, of none effect, or in vain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2758}}` is used in several significant theological contexts. Its most notable use is in [[Philippians 2:7]], which states that Christ "made himself of no reputation" when he took on the form of a servant. The word is also used to warn against actions that would undermine the gospel; in [[1 Corinthians 1:17]], Paul avoids using "wisdom of words" lest the cross of Christ "should be made of none effect." The apostle Paul also uses it in a personal context, declaring he would rather die than have any man "make my glorying void" [[1 Corinthians 9:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and impact of emptying or neutralizing.
* `{{G2673}}` **katargéō** (to be (render) entirely idle (useless), literally or figuratively): This word is used alongside `{{G2758}}` in [[Romans 4:14]], which argues that if heirs are from the law, "faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect."
* `{{G2745}}` **kaúchēma** (a boast (properly, the object; by implication, the act) in a good or a bad sense): This is what Paul seeks to prevent from being made void `{{G2758}}` in [[1 Corinthians 9:15]]. It is also the subject of his concern in [[2 Corinthians 9:3]], hoping his "boasting" would not "be in vain."
* `{{G3444}}` **morphḗ** (shape; figuratively, nature): This word is crucial to understanding [[Philippians 2:7]], as Christ emptied himself `{{G2758}}` to take upon the **form** of a servant.
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave): This defines the nature Christ took upon himself when he made himself of no reputation `{{G2758}}`, becoming a **servant** [[Philippians 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2758}}` is profound, particularly in explaining core Christian doctrines.
* **Christ's Humiliation:** The word is central to the description of the incarnation. In [[Philippians 2:7]], Christ "made himself of no reputation" by taking the "form of a servant" and being made "in the likeness of men."
* **The Efficacy of Faith:** The term is used to contrast faith and law. [[Romans 4:14]] warns that a reliance on law for inheritance results in faith being "made void" `{{G2758}}`, thereby nullifying its role.
* **The Power of the Cross:** Paul's preaching methodology in [[1 Corinthians 1:17]] is deliberately simple, to ensure that the power of the cross is not "made of none effect" `{{G2758}}` by human eloquence or wisdom.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2758}}` is much more than a simple term for emptying. It is a critical word for understanding divine action and human response. It defines Christ's profound act of self-abasement, the potential for human effort to nullify faith, and the importance of preserving the simple power of the gospel. The word's application ranges from Paul's personal "glorying" [[1 Corinthians 9:15]] to Christ making himself "of no reputation" for the sake of humanity [[Philippians 2:7]].
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