Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of vanity often refers to the futility and emptiness of human endeavors that are not grounded in righteousness and truth. One specific aspect of vanity addressed in Scripture is the acquisition of wealth through deceitful means. The Bible consistently warns against the pursuit of riches obtained by falsehood, emphasizing the transient and ultimately unsatisfying nature of such gains.Proverbs 21:6 states, "Acquiring treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor, a deadly pursuit." This verse highlights the ephemeral nature of wealth gained through deceit. The imagery of a "fleeting vapor" underscores the idea that such riches are insubstantial and will not endure. The pursuit of wealth through dishonest means is not only vain but also perilous, leading to spiritual and moral decay. The theme of vanity in relation to dishonest gain is further explored in Proverbs 13:11, which declares, "Dishonest wealth will dwindle, but what is earned through hard work will be multiplied." Here, the contrast is drawn between wealth obtained through deceit and that which is earned through diligence and integrity. The former is destined to diminish, while the latter is blessed with increase. This principle serves as a warning against the temptation to engage in fraudulent practices for the sake of material gain. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his epistle to the Ephesians. Ephesians 4:28 advises, "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need." This exhortation not only condemns theft and deceit but also promotes honest labor as a means of acquiring wealth. The purpose of such labor is not merely personal enrichment but also the ability to contribute to the well-being of others. The futility of riches obtained by falsehood is also illustrated in the parable of the rich fool found in Luke 12:16-21. In this parable, a wealthy man hoards his abundant harvest, only to be called a fool by God when his life is demanded of him that very night. The man's focus on material wealth, without regard for spiritual riches, renders his efforts vain and ultimately meaningless. Throughout Scripture, the pursuit of wealth through dishonest means is consistently portrayed as vanity. Such riches are temporary and lack true value, leading to spiritual emptiness and separation from God. The Bible calls believers to seek wealth through honest and righteous means, emphasizing the eternal significance of integrity and the blessings that come from aligning one's life with God's truth. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 21:6The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death. Nave's Topical Index Library Homilies on Galatians and Ephesians. Ephesians i. 14-Nov Book Six Turmoil in the Twenties. ... Twelfth Sunday after Trinity Gospel Transcends Law. Book Ten from Autobiography to Self-Analysis. ... Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. The Holy War, The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources What does it mean that we have eternity in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11)? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view bodybuilding / weightlifting? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about narcissism? | GotQuestions.org Vanity: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Vanity: A Consequence of the Fall Vanity: All Earthly Things Are Vanity: All should Know and Acknowledge Vanity: Alms Giving Without Charity Is Vanity: Almsgiving Without Love Is Vanity: Childhood and Youth Are Vanity: Evil People: Allure Others Through the Words of Vanity: Evil People: Especially Characterized By Vanity: Evil People: Judicially Given up To Vanity: Evil People: Regard God's Service As Vanity: Evil People: Though Full of, Affect to be Wise Vanity: Faith Without Works Is Vanity: Following Those Given To, Leads to Poverty Vanity: Fools Follow Those Given To Vanity: Man at his Best Estate Is Vanity: Man, at his Best Estate, Is Vanity: Man's own Righteousness Is Vanity: Mere External Religion Is Vanity: Riches Gotten by Falsehood Are Vanity: Saints Hate the Thoughts of Vanity: Saints: Avoid Those Given To Vanity: Saints: Hate the Thoughts of Vanity: Saints: Pray to be Kept From Vanity: The Conduct of the Ungodly Is Vanity: The Religion of Hypocrites Is Vanity: The Thoughts of Man Are Vanity: The Wicked: Allure Others by Words of Vanity: The Wicked: Count God's Service As Vanity: The Wicked: Especially Characterised By Vanity: The Wicked: Judicially Given up To Vanity: The Wicked: Though Full of, Affect to be Wise Vanity: The Wicked: Walk After Vanity: The Worship of the Wicked Is Vanity: They Who Trust In, Rewarded With Vanity: Treasures of Wickedness Are Vanity: Wealth Gotten By, Diminishes Vanity: Worldly Possessions Are Related Terms |
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