### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aichmálōtos**, represented by `{{G164}}`, properly means a **prisoner of war** or a **captive**. It is derived from words meaning a spear and a derivative of ἅλωσις. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its sole appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G164}}` occurs in [[Luke 4:18]]. In this passage, Jesus is in the synagogue and reads from a scroll to announce His divine mission. He declares that the Spirit of the Lord is upon Him and that He has been sent to **preach** deliverance to the **captives**. The term is part of a list of conditions Jesus came to address, including the poor, the brokenhearted, the blind, and the bruised.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Luke 4:18]] illuminate the meaning of **aichmálōtos**:
* `{{G859}}` **áphesis** (deliverance, liberty): This is the freedom that is proclaimed to the captives. It means "**freedom; (figuratively) pardon**," highlighting a release from a state of penalty or bondage [[Luke 4:18]].
* `{{G2352}}` **thraúō** (bruised): Defined as "**to crush**," this word describes the condition of those Jesus was sent to set at liberty, underscoring the oppressive nature of the state from which the captive is freed [[Luke 4:18]].
* `{{G649}}` **apostéllō** (sent): This verb, meaning to "**send out (properly, on a mission)**," establishes the divine authority and purpose behind Christ's work to release the captives [[Luke 4:18]].
* `{{G2390}}` **iáomai** (heal): Used in the context of healing the brokenhearted, this word means "**to cure (literally or figuratively)**" and parallels the work of bringing deliverance to the captive [[Luke 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G164}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance.
* **The Messianic Mission:** The liberation of **captives** is declared as a core tenet of Jesus's purpose. His anointing by the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` is explicitly linked to the task of preaching deliverance to them [[Luke 4:18]].
* **Spiritual Captivity:** Positioned alongside the **brokenhearted** `{{G4937}}`, the **blind** `{{G5185}}`, and the **bruised** `{{G2352}}`, the term **captive** expands beyond a literal prisoner to represent a state of spiritual bondage and oppression.
* **Proclaimed Liberty:** Deliverance for the captive is not won by battle but is given through proclamation. The action is to **preach** `{{G2784}}` **deliverance** `{{G859}}`, indicating that freedom is a gift received through the announced word.
### Summary
In summary, **aichmálōtos** `{{G164}}` is a concise but deeply meaningful term. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Luke 4:18]] defines a fundamental aspect of Christ's ministry. It transforms the concept of a prisoner of war into a powerful metaphor for the human condition of spiritual captivity, a condition remedied by the proclaimed **deliverance** `{{G859}}` offered through the gospel.
TRV