The meaning of “μάταιος”
Understanding mátaios reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
vain, vanity. - empty, i.e. (literally) profitless, or (specially), an idol
μάταιος
vain, vanity. - empty, i.e. (literally) profitless, or (specially), an idol
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Acts 14:15 | “And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:” Word: μάταιος (mátaios) | |
| 1 Corinthians 15:17 | “And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.” Word: μάταιος (mátaios) | |
| Titus 3:9 | “But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.” Word: μάταιος (mátaios) | |
| James 1:26 | “If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” Word: μάταιος (mátaios) | |
| 1 Peter 1:18 | “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;” Word: μάταιος (mátaios) |