### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kenōs**, represented by `{{G2761}}`, is an adverb meaning **vainly**, or **to no purpose**. Derived from κενός, this word is extremely rare in the biblical text. It appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses**, making its single occurrence in scripture particularly noteworthy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2761}}` is in [[James 4:5]], where it is used in a rhetorical question: "Do ye think that the scripture saith **in vain**...?" This construction immediately establishes that the words of scripture `{{G1124}}` are never spoken **to no purpose**. The verse challenges the reader to consider whether a scriptural statement—specifically, that "The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy"—could be meaningless. The use of **kenōs** here functions to affirm the purposeful and weighty nature of scripture.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[James 4:5]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (scripture): from γράφω; a document, i.e. holy Writ (or its contents or a statement in it). This identifies the source of the statement that cannot be spoken **in vain**. All scripture is profitable for doctrine and instruction [[2 Timothy 3:16]].
* `{{G1380}}` **dokéō** (to think): a prolonged form of a primary verb... to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly). This word highlights the contrast between what one might **think** and what the scripture definitively says. It is used elsewhere to describe what one "seemeth to have" [[Luke 8:18]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): ...a current of air... or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit. In this context, it refers to the **spirit** that dwells in believers, which God has given not as a spirit of fear, but of power and love [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
* `{{G5355}}` **phthónos** (envy): ill-will (as detraction), i.e. jealousy (spite). This is the specific desire that scripture warns against, listed with other behaviors such as strife [[Philippians 1:15]] and malice [[Titus 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2761}}` is demonstrated in its singular, powerful application.
* **The Purposefulness of Scripture:** The primary point of using **kenōs** is to assert that scripture does not contain empty or purposeless statements. By asking if scripture speaks **in vain**, the text powerfully affirms that every part of it is meaningful and profitable for learning [[Romans 15:4]].
* **A Sober Warning Against Envy:** The truth that is not spoken **in vain** is a direct warning that "The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy" [[James 4:5]]. This underscores the seriousness of envy `{{G5355}}`, a quality that the dossier shows is the reason Christ was delivered up [[Matthew 27:18]].
* **The Indwelling Spirit's Nature:** The warning carries weight because of the reality of "the spirit `{{G4151}}` that dwelleth `{{G2730}}` in us." Scripture's statements about this spirit's tendencies are not theoretical, as believers are temples where God has promised to dwell [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
### Summary
In summary, **kenōs** `{{G2761}}` is a potent adverb whose single biblical use serves a critical function. By meaning **vainly** or **to no purpose**, its inclusion in the question in [[James 4:5]] forces the reader to conclude that scripture never speaks without reason. This one word reinforces the authority and intent behind God's Word, anchoring a serious warning about the human spirit's inclination toward envy. Through its pointed usage, `{{G2761}}` demonstrates how even the rarest of biblical words can underscore foundational theological truths.
TRV