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H7386 · Hebrew · Old Testament
רֵיק
Req
Adjective / Noun
Empty, vain, worthless

Definition

Req (H7386) means empty, vain, or without substance. It describes the hollow, purposeless existence of those who turn from God — as well as literal emptiness like an unfilled vessel. The related adverb reqam means 'empty-handed.'

Usage & Theological Significance

Proverbs warns against following the worthless and vain. The Psalms contrast the 'empty' counsel of the ungodly (Psalm 2:1, 'why do the nations rage/conspire vainly') with the life-giving purposes of God. Paul warns against being taken captive by 'empty (kenos) philosophy' (Colossians 2:8). God sends none of His own away empty — He fills the hungry with good things (Luke 1:53).

Key Bible Verses

Psalm 2:1 Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?
Proverbs 12:11 Those who chase fantasies have no sense — following the worthless.
Genesis 37:24 The cistern was empty; there was no water in it.
Luke 1:53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition.

Related Words

External Resources

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