### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aichmalōteúō**, represented by `{{G162}}`, means **to capture** or **lead captive**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is derived from a word for a captive (αἰχμάλωτος) and is used to describe the act of taking someone prisoner, either literally or figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word is used in two distinct contexts. In [[2 Timothy 3:6]], it has a negative connotation, describing how certain people "creep into houses, and **lead captive** silly women laden with sins." Here, the capture is a spiritual and moral one, accomplished through deception. In contrast, [[Ephesians 4:8]] uses the term to describe Christ's triumphant ascension, stating that "he **led captivity** captive," signifying his victory over the forces that hold humanity in bondage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being led or captured:
* `{{G161}}` **aichmalōsía** (captivity): This noun, meaning the state of being a captive, is used directly with `{{G162}}` in the phrase "he led **captivity** captive" [[Ephesians 4:8]].
* `{{G71}}` **ágō** (to lead): This verb appears in [[2 Timothy 3:6]], where the women who are led captive are also described as being "**led away** with divers lusts," emphasizing a sense of being driven or induced by external forces.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G162}}` is seen in its contrasting applications:
* **Captivity to Sin:** In [[2 Timothy 3:6]], the term illustrates how people can be captured by their own sins and lusts, highlighting a state of moral and spiritual weakness that makes one vulnerable to deception.
* **Christ's Triumph Over Captivity:** The phrase in [[Ephesians 4:8]], "he led captivity captive," is a declaration of Christ's victory. His ascension is portrayed as a triumphal procession where He subjugates the very forces, like sin and death, that once held humanity captive.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G162}}` is a specific verb meaning **to lead captive**. Though it appears only twice, its applications are powerful and contrasting. It is used to describe the insidious capture of individuals by sin [[2 Timothy 3:6]], as well as Christ's triumphant overthrow of captivity itself in his ascension [[Ephesians 4:8]]. The word demonstrates how scripture uses the concept of capture to explain both the human condition of bondage and the divine act of liberation.
TRV