### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼaççîyr**, represented by `{{H616}}`, means **prisoner** or **captive**. It appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, yet each instance carries significant weight, describing a state of being bound or confined. The term is used to illustrate consequences of judgment as well as the promise of divine liberation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, all found in the book of Isaiah, `{{H616}}` is used in distinct prophetic contexts. It depicts a state of abject defeat and judgment, where the unrighteous will "bow down under the **prisoners**" [[Isaiah 10:4]]. It is also used to describe a future gathering for judgment, where people "shall be gathered together, as **prisoners** are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison" [[Isaiah 24:22]]. In contrast, it is used to describe the object of God's redemptive work, a mission to "bring out the **prisoners** from the prison" and release those in darkness [[Isaiah 42:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the state and location of the **prisoner**:
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out, bring out): This root is used for the act of liberation. In God's redemptive mission, He promises "to bring out{H3318} the prisoners{H616}" [[Isaiah 42:7]], highlighting the action of setting captives free.
* `{{H4525}}` **maçgêr** (a prison): This word defines the physical place of confinement for the **prisoner**. The Lord's work involves bringing out the captive from the "prison{H4525}" [[Isaiah 42:7]], and it is also the place where prisoners are "shut up" during judgment [[Isaiah 24:22]].
* `{{H2822}}` **chôshek** (darkness; misery, destruction): This term describes the condition associated with captivity. Being a **prisoner** is linked to sitting in "darkness{H2822}" [[Isaiah 42:7]], connecting physical imprisonment with spiritual despair and misery.
* `{{H953}}` **bôwr** (a pit hole, especially one used as a cistern or a prison): This specifies a type of holding place for captives. In a vision of judgment, the condemned are gathered like **prisoners** in "the pit{H953}" [[Isaiah 24:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H616}}` is centered on the concepts of judgment and deliverance.
* **Symbol of Divine Judgment:** The status of a **prisoner** is a powerful metaphor for the consequences of turning away from God. This is seen in the depiction of the defeated falling "under the slain" and bowing "under the **prisoners**" [[Isaiah 10:4]], and in the image of captives being gathered and confined in a pit as a result of divine visitation [[Isaiah 24:22]].
* **Representation of Spiritual Bondage:** Captivity extends beyond physical walls. The mission to release the **prisoner** is directly tied to opening "blind{H5787} eyes{H5869}" and bringing people out of "darkness{H2822}" [[Isaiah 42:7]], framing imprisonment as a state of spiritual ignorance and affliction.
* **Focus of God's Redemptive Plan:** The liberation of the **prisoner** is a key element of God's promised salvation. The act of bringing "out the **prisoners** from the prison" [[Isaiah 42:7]] is a central part of the messianic work, demonstrating God's ultimate power to restore and set free.
### Summary
In summary, while **ʼaççîyr** `{{H616}}` is rare, its usage is profound. It serves as a stark illustration of both the consequences of divine judgment and the hope of divine deliverance. The word **prisoner** encapsulates a state of bondage, whether as a result of sin and defeat or as a condition of spiritual darkness from which God promises to rescue His people. Through this term, scripture portrays the gravity of confinement and the glory of liberation.
TRV