### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rêyqâm**, represented by `{{H7387}}`, conveys the idea of emptiness. Its definition is "emptily; figuratively (objective) ineffectually, (subjective) undeservedly; without cause, empty, in vain, void." It appears 16 times across 16 unique verses, and is used to describe a state of being physically empty-handed, a lack of purpose or result, or an action taken without proper justification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7387}}` is applied in several distinct situations. It is used to describe a literal lack of possessions, as when Naomi laments, "I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again **empty**" [[Ruth 1:21]], or when Jacob fears his father-in-law would have "sent me away now **empty**" [[Genesis 31:42]]. The word also signifies ineffectiveness, as God promises that His word "shall not return unto me **void**" but will accomplish its purpose [[Isaiah 55:11]]. In a legal and moral sense, it means "without cause," such as when the psalmist describes an enemy who acts against him **without cause** [[Psalms 7:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the meaning of being empty or acting in vain:
* `{{H4392}}` **mâlêʼ** (full): As the direct opposite of empty, this word is used in stark contrast. Naomi states she went out **full** but the Lord brought her home again **empty** [[Ruth 1:21]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back): This word often appears with `{{H7387}}` to describe something that comes back without achieving its goal. For example, God's word will not **return** to him void [[Isaiah 55:11]], and the sword of Saul did not **return** empty from battle [[2 Samuel 1:22]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away): This verb is frequently used to describe the act of dismissing someone. The law commanded that a freed servant must not be **sent away** empty [[Deuteronomy 15:13]], and Job was accused of having **sent** widows away empty [[Job 22:9]].
* `{{H954}}` **bûwsh** (to be ashamed): A state of shame is often the result of emptiness or futility. When the nobles' servants returned with their vessels **empty**, "they were **ashamed** and confounded" [[Jeremiah 14:3]]. The psalmist also prays that those who transgress **without cause** will be the ones who are **ashamed** [[Psalms 25:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and moral weight of `{{H7387}}` is significant. It underscores key principles of worship, justice, and divine purpose.
* **Worship and Offering:** The repeated command that the men of Israel "shall not appear before the LORD **empty**" during their feasts establishes that true worship involves bringing a substantive offering, not just a vacant presence ([[Exodus 23:15]], [[Deuteronomy 16:16]]).
* **Divine Efficacy:** The concept powerfully contrasts human futility with God's sovereignty. While a mighty warrior's arrows may **return in vain** [[Jeremiah 50:9]], God's own word is guaranteed to be effective and will not return **void** [[Isaiah 55:11]].
* **Social Justice:** The word is a benchmark for righteous conduct. The law explicitly forbids sending a freed servant away **empty** [[Deuteronomy 15:13]], and one of the accusations against Job is that he sent widows away **empty** [[Job 22:9]], highlighting a moral duty to provide for the vulnerable.
* **Groundless Action:** In the Psalms, `{{H7387}}` defines transgression that is **without cause** [[Psalms 25:3]]. This frames unprovoked hostility or sin not merely as an action, but as an empty and unjustifiable one.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7387}}` is a multifaceted term that moves beyond simple physical emptiness. It serves as a crucial descriptor for futility, injustice, and improper worship. Whether describing a vessel with no water, a word with no effect, or an attack with no reason, **rêyqâm** defines the line between that which is full of purpose and provision and that which is ultimately void and in vain.
TRV