αἰχμαλωσία (aichmalōsia)
aichmalōsia
captivity
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun aichmalōsia denotes captivity or the state of being taken prisoner. In the New Testament, it appears only twice, carrying a heavy weight of loss and subjugation. The word derives from roots referring to a spear-point, evoking the violent imagery of capture in battle.
Its usage highlights a striking contrast between physical imprisonment and spiritual victory. In Revelation 13:10, it describes the literal fate awaiting those who oppose God’s people, warning that "if anyone is to be taken captive, into captivity they go." Here, the term signifies a concrete historical reality of persecution.
Conversely, Ephesians 4:8 uses the plural form in a quotation from Psalm 68. Paul applies this language of defeat to Christ’s ascension, suggesting He led a "captive multitude" in triumph. This shift transforms the concept from a symbol of human suffering into a declaration of divine authority over hostile powers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word aichmalōsia carries the heavy weight of being taken prisoner, evoking images of loss and subjugation. In our lives, we often face situations where we feel trapped by circumstances, fear, or opposition. This term reminds us that such captivity is a real part of the human experience, yet it does not have the final word over those who trust in God.
Scripture offers a profound shift in perspective. While Revelation warns of the reality of persecution, Ephesians celebrates Christ’s victory. By quoting Psalm 68, Paul shows that Jesus did not just escape captivity; He led it captive. This means that even when we face hardship, our ultimate destiny is tied to His triumph over all hostile powers.
This truth brings hope to your faith journey. You are not defined by the chains of this world but by the freedom found in Christ’s ascension. When you feel overwhelmed, remember that He has already secured victory, turning what was meant for defeat into a celebration of His gifts and grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- captivity2×
- captivity,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- αἰχμαλωσίαν2×
- αἰχμαλωσίαν,1×
Key Verses
-
Ephesians 4:8
Therefore he says, “When he ascended on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts to people.”
This verse transforms the concept of captivity from a sign of defeat to a declaration of Christ's triumph as He leads captives in victory.
-
Revelation of John 13:10
If anyone is to go into captivity, he will go into captivity. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, he must be killed. Here is the endurance and the faith of the saints.
Here the word describes the concrete reality of persecution, warning that opposition to God’s people may result in literal imprisonment or death.