### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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