The Greek word mátēn, represented by G3155, adverbially means to do something in vain or to no purpose. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The word's meaning is derived from the idea of an unsuccessful search or folly, highlighting an action that is ultimately futile.
In both of its biblical appearances, G3155 is used to describe a specific type of invalid worship. It qualifies religious devotion as being in vain when it is based on teaching for doctrines the commandments of men (Matthew 15:9; Mark 7:7). This context directly links the futility of an action to the human origin of its guiding religious precepts, showing that such worship is to no purpose.
Several related words clarify why the worship described is considered in vain:
- G4576 sébomai (to revere, i.e. adore): This is the act of worship that is rendered futile by G3155. The term is also used to describe devout or religious people Acts 13:43, but when connected to mátēn, it demonstrates that reverence can be empty if its foundation is flawed Matthew 15:9.
- G1321 didáskō (to teach): This is the action that transmits the flawed basis for worship. The validity of what is being taught determines whether the resulting reverence has value Mark 7:7.
- G1319 didaskalía (instruction... doctrine, learning, teaching): This is the content being taught. When human commandments are presented as divine doctrine, the worship that follows is in vain Matthew 15:9. Scripture contrasts sound doctrine with the doctrines of men Colossians 2:22.
- G1778 éntalma (an injunction, i.e. religious precept): This word identifies the source of the invalid doctrines as the commandments of men, placing them in opposition to divine instruction Mark 7:7.
The theological weight of G3155 centers on the authenticity and foundation of religious practice.
- The Basis of Worship: The word establishes a critical distinction that worship (sébomai) is nullified when its substance consists of the commandments of men rather than God's word (Matthew 15:9; Mark 7:7).
- The Authority of Doctrine: G3155 serves as a warning against elevating human tradition to the level of divine doctrine (didaskalía). This is contrasted with sound doctrine, which is profitable for instruction 2 Timothy 3:16.
- Futile Religious Activity: The term highlights that religious actions are judged not by their outward appearance but by their source. An action performed in vain is a purposeless effort, regardless of the devotion of the person performing it.
In summary, G3155 is more than a general term for futility; it is a specific theological critique. It defines as in vain any worship founded on human precepts that are taught as divine doctrine. The word serves as a concise and powerful warning that the source of what is taught and believed is essential for authentic reverence. It illustrates that substituting the commandments of men for God's own instruction renders worship empty and to no purpose.
TRV