### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **désmios**, represented by `{{G1198}}`, means **a captive** or **prisoner**. It is derived from the word δεσμόν and appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. It refers to an individual who is bound or held in confinement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1198}}` is used to describe both literal and figurative states of imprisonment. It denotes individuals held in physical custody, such as when Paul and Silas sang praises and "the **prisoners** heard them" [[Acts 16:25]]. Similarly, it describes the custom of releasing one **prisoner** during the feast [[Mark 15:6]], with Barabbas being identified as a "notable **prisoner**" [[Matthew 27:16]]. The Apostle Paul frequently uses the term to describe himself, identifying as a "**prisoner**" delivered into the hands of the Romans [[Acts 28:17]] and, more pointedly, as a "**prisoner** of Jesus Christ" [[Philemon 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of imprisonment:
* `{{G1200}}` **desmophýlax** (a jailer): This term refers to the guard of the prisoners. After an earthquake, the **jailor** woke up and, seeing the prison doors open, supposed that the prisoners `{{G1198}}` had fled [[Acts 16:27]].
* `{{G4887}}` **syndéō** (be bound with): This word emphasizes a shared experience of imprisonment. Believers are instructed to remember those in bonds `{{G1198}}` "as **bound with them**" [[Hebrews 13:3]], indicating deep solidarity.
* `{{G5438}}` **phylakḗ** (prison, imprisonment, hold, cage): This word denotes the location or condition of confinement where a `{{G1198}}` would be held, such as when Paul endured frequent **prisons** [[2 Corinthians 11:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1198}}` is primarily seen through the writings of the Apostle Paul.
* **Identity in Christ:** Paul re-frames his imprisonment not as a punishment, but as a core part of his identity in Christ. He repeatedly introduces himself as "the **prisoner** of the Lord" [[Ephesians 4:1]] or "a **prisoner** of Jesus Christ" [[Philemon 1:9]].
* **A Call to Solidarity:** The term is used to call believers to compassion and unity. The instruction to "Remember them that are in bonds" [[Hebrews 13:3]] establishes a moral and spiritual duty to care for fellow believers who are suffering.
* **Affliction for the Gospel:** Being a `{{G1198}}` is linked to bearing witness for the faith. Paul encourages Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord, "nor of me his **prisoner**," but to instead be a "partaker of the afflictions of the gospel" [[2 Timothy 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1198}}` moves beyond its literal definition of a **captive**. While it is used to describe actual prisoners, its most profound application is by the Apostle Paul, who adopts it as a title of honor. It transforms the idea of confinement into a symbol of unwavering commitment to Christ, a testament to the gospel, and a call for the church to stand in solidarity with those who suffer for their faith.
TRV