The Hebrew word rêyq, represented by H7386, means empty and is used figuratively to describe something or someone as worthless. It appears 14 times in 14 unique verses. The term carries a dual sense, referring both to a literal state of being unfilled and a moral or spiritual state of being without value.
In its literal sense, H7386 describes physical emptiness. Joseph was cast into a pit that was empty Genesis 37:24, with no water in it. Gideon's men carried empty pitchers to conceal their torches Judges 7:16, and the prophet Elisha instructed a widow to gather empty vessels to be filled with oil 2 Kings 4:3. Figuratively, it describes the hollowness of a false promise, as when a hungry man dreams he eats but awakens to find his soul is still empty Isaiah 29:8. The word is most often applied to people, labeling them as vain or worthless individuals who are not to be followed. Abimelech hired vain and light persons to follow him Judges 9:4, and Jephthah was joined by a group of vain men Judges 11:3. Michal scornfully compares King David to one of the vain fellows for his exuberant worship 2 Samuel 6:20.
Several related words help clarify the concept of worthlessness and its consequences:
- H1100 bᵉlîyaʻal (without profit, worthlessness): This term is used in direct parallel with H7386 to describe those who oppose God's chosen king. In the case of Rehoboam, he was confronted by "vain men, the children of Belial" 2 Chronicles 13:7.
- H7389 rêysh (poverty): This word highlights the tangible outcome of associating with worthless things. Scripture warns that one who follows after vain persons will have poverty enough Proverbs 28:19.
- H2638 châçêr (lacking; hence, without): This term describes the mental and spiritual deficiency that results from worthless pursuits. A person who follows vain individuals is described as void of understanding Proverbs 12:11.
The theological weight of H7386 lies in its sharp contrast between divine substance and human futility.
- The Emptiness of Human Endeavor: The word is a recurring warning against associating with worthless people or ideas. Following vain persons leads to a lack of understanding Proverbs 12:11 and ultimately poverty Proverbs 28:19. These individuals are often linked with rebellion and ungodliness 2 Chronicles 13:7.
- The Fullness of God's Word: In a powerful declaration, Moses tells Israel that God's law is not a vain thing for them, but it is their very life Deuteronomy 32:47. This establishes a fundamental principle: what comes from God is substantial and life-giving, while that which is apart from Him is empty.
- Emptiness as a State of Need or Judgment: On one hand, physical emptiness creates an opportunity for God's miraculous provision, as with the widow's empty jars 2 Kings 4:3. On the other hand, it symbolizes judgment, such as the empty ears of grain signifying famine Genesis 41:27 or the promise that a man who breaks his oath will be "shaken out, and emptied" Nehemiah 5:13.
In summary, H7386 serves as a potent biblical symbol for more than just physical space. It illustrates the critical distinction between what is substantial and what is hollow. Whether describing an empty pit, a worthless person, or a futile endeavor, rêyq consistently points to the principle that true fullness and value are found only in what God provides, particularly His life-giving word, while that which is apart from Him is ultimately vain and empty.
TRV