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.
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.
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.
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.
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