Vanity primarily refers to excessive pride in one's appearance, abilities, qualities, or achievements. It is the characteristic of being overly concerned with oneself and one's image or accomplishments, often seen as conceit or egotism. Vanity may also refer to things that display this excessive pride, such as vanity plates or vanity printing. In a broader philosophical and religious context, vanity can mean the futility or emptiness of human efforts, something transitory and ultimately worthless compared to more serious, enduring matters. The term originally meant "futility" before developing a more narcissistic connotation. In Christian teachings, vanity is considered a form of pride and a sin because it involves self-idolatry, placing one's image above divine grace. Vanity is often symbolized in art by objects like mirrors, jewels, or images of people admiring themselves, which serve as warnings of the fleeting nature of beauty and life. The word also literally refers to a dressing table or bathroom cabinet common in homes. In summary, vanity can mean:
- Excessive pride or self-admiration, especially about appearance or achievements.
- Something empty, futile, or lacking lasting value.
- A piece of furniture like a dressing table or a bathroom cabinet.
Philosophically and religiously, vanity highlights the transitory, often superficial nature of things people value in this world.
