αἰχμαλωσία
Aichmalotia
Captivity — when the pattern runs on autopilot
Aichmalotia is the final stage of the temptation sequence — the condition of being fully captured by a passion that has become habitual. At this stage, the pattern operates automatically, without conscious choice. The person in captivity doesn't decide to be angry, lustful, or greedy — the pattern fires on its own, driven by long habit rather than present choice.
Captivity is not permanent. The tradition teaches that even deeply entrenched habits can be gradually transformed through sustained watchfulness, prayer, and the practice of the corresponding antidote. But the work is harder and slower than catching the thought at earlier stages — which is why the tradition emphasizes early intervention rather than late remediation.