# vain, vanity #

## Definition: ##

The term "vain" describes something that is useless or has no purpose. Vain things are empty and worthless.

* The term "vanity" refers to worthlessness or emptiness. It can also refer to pride or arrogance.
* In the Old Testament, idols are described as vain things that cannot deliver or save. They are worthless and have no use or purpose.
* If something was done "in vain," it means that there was no good result from it. The effort or action did not accomplish anything.
* To "believe in vain" means to believe in something that is not true and that gives false hope.

## Translation Suggestions: ##

* Depending on the context, the term "vain" could be translated as "empty" or "useless" or "hopeless" or "worthless" or "meaningless."
* The phrase "in vain" could be translated as, "without result" or "with no result" or "for no reason" or "with no purpose."
* The term "vanity" could be translated as, "pride" or "nothing worthwhile" or "hopelessness."

(See also: [idol](../other/idol.md) **·** [worthy](../kt/worthy.md))

## Bible References: ##

* [1 Corinthians 15:1-2](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/1co/15/01)
* [1 Samuel 25:21-22](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/1sa/25/21)
* [2 Peter 02:17-19](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/2pe/02/17)
* [Isaiah 45:19](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/isa/45/19)
* [Jeremiah 02:29-31](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/jer/02/29)
* [Matthew 15:7-9](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/mat/15/07)