The phrase “in vain” and the word “vanity” are related. However, “in vain” and “vanity” as used in the King James Version of the Bible is far more related to the idea of “emptiness” or “without purpose” than to some form of pride. “In vain” can mean in an inconsequential manner.

One mark of a true believer is taking God, His names, and all references to God very seriously. True believers want to be very careful to avoid every possibility of taking His name in vain. Afterall, God takes it very seriously when anyone takes His name in vain. His command requires respect and avoidance of any vanity.

Exodus 20:7 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Here are 10 ways people can take God’s name in vain (there are many more):

(1) Ignoring God’s name

(2) Ignoring or failing to use any or all of the ways God reveals Himself through His name(s)

(3) Treating God’s name as common

(4) Using God’s name in cursing

(5) Referring to God thoughtlessly

(6) Referring to God in any disrespectful way

(7) Failing to actively “hallow” His name(s)

(8) Using God’s name in pretense, as in pretending to obey and to love God

(9) Being “associated” with God’s name yet disobeying God and bringing shame to Him by deeds that do not represent Him

(10) Failing to follow through with the kind of relationship God wants with each person