### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mátaios**, represented by `{{G3152}}`, means **empty**, **profitless**, or **vain**. It can also refer specifically to an **idol**. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe things that lack true substance, value, or reality, from empty religious practices to futile human reasoning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3152}}` defines what is worthless in contrast to what is of God. A person's religion is declared **vain** if they do not control their tongue, thus deceiving their own heart [[James 1:26]]. Faith itself is considered **vain** if Christ has not been raised from the dead [[1 Corinthians 15:17]]. The word is also applied to the "conversation," or behavior, inherited through tradition, from which believers are redeemed [[1 Peter 1:18]]. In Acts, idols are referred to as "these **vanities**" from which people must turn to the living God [[Acts 14:15]]. Furthermore, the Lord knows the thoughts of the wise are **vain** [[1 Corinthians 3:20]], and believers are instructed to avoid foolish questions and arguments because they are unprofitable and **vain** [[Titus 3:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of what is empty or worthless:
* `{{G2356}}` **thrēskeía** (religion): This term for ceremonial observance is described as **vain** `{{G3152}}` when it is not accompanied by a bridled tongue and a sincere heart [[James 1:26]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): Defined as reliance upon Christ for salvation, **faith** is rendered **vain** `{{G3152}}` if its central object, the resurrection of Christ, is not true [[1 Corinthians 15:17]].
* `{{G391}}` **anastrophḗ** (behavior): This word for one's way of life or "conversation" is described as **vain** `{{G3152}}` when it is based on traditions passed down from fathers, a state from which believers are redeemed [[1 Peter 1:18]].
* `{{G512}}` **anōphelḗs** (unprofitable): This word, meaning useless, is used alongside **vain** `{{G3152}}` to describe foolish questions and strivings about the law, highlighting their futility [[Titus 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3152}}` is significant, as it draws a sharp line between what has eternal value and what does not.
* **The Futility of Empty Religion:** The term critiques religious observance that is merely external. A religion `{{G2356}}` is **vain** if it does not produce internal change, such as self-control [[James 1:26]].
* **The Foundation of Christian Faith:** Its use in [[1 Corinthians 15:17]] establishes a core doctrine: without the resurrection, Christian faith `{{G4102}}` is **vain**, empty of power and substance, leaving believers in their sins.
* **Worthlessness of Human Endeavors:** The word is applied to human activities that are devoid of divine truth. This includes the "thoughts" `{{G1261}}` of the wise [[1 Corinthians 3:20]] and contentious disputes that are ultimately **vain** and unprofitable [[Titus 3:9]].
* **Contrast with the Living God:** It is used to label idols as "vanities," setting up a direct contrast between lifeless objects of worship and the living God who created all things [[Acts 14:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3152}}` is a crucial term that defines spiritual emptiness and futility. It is not merely about something being useless, but about its worthlessness in the context of divine truth. From an unbridled tongue that nullifies religion to a faith without the resurrection, `{{G3152}}` consistently points to the contrast between hollow human traditions and wisdom, and the substantive reality found only in the living God and the resurrected Christ.
TRV