Priesthood: meaning, definitions and examples
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priesthood
[ ˈpriːst.hʊd ]
religious authority
The priesthood refers to the office or position of a priest, especially within a religious organization. It is the group of ordained people in a religion, typically regarded as having authority to perform certain rituals and ceremonies.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| priesthood |
Used to describe the state or condition of being a priest, often referring to the duties and responsibilities associated with this role within a religious context.
|
| clergy |
A general term that encompasses all individuals who are ordained for religious duties and services, such as priests, ministers, bishops, etc.
|
| ministry |
Refers to the duties, services, and functions carried out by religious leaders. It can also denote a specific department within a church or religious organization focused on a particular type of service.
|
| pastorate |
Specifically refers to the position, tenure, or office of a pastor, often within a particular church or congregation.
|
Examples of usage
- The priesthood plays a central role in the Catholic Church.
- In some cultures, the priesthood is reserved for men only.
- Members of the priesthood are often seen as spiritual guides.
- The responsibilities of the priesthood include conducting worship services and administering sacraments.
- The priesthood can vary in structure and hierarchy among different religious traditions.
collective body of priests
The priesthood can also refer to the collective body of priests within a religious group or community. It encompasses all the individuals who have been ordained to carry out religious duties and serve the spiritual needs of the faithful.
Synonyms
clergy, ecclesiastics, ministry.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| priesthood |
Refers to the office or position of a priest, often focusing on the responsibilities and duties involved.
|
| clergy |
Used to describe the group of people ordained for religious duties, including priests, ministers, and rabbis.
|
| ministry |
Refers to the work and duties of ministers, especially in relation to religious teachings and community service.
|
| ecclesiastics |
A more formal or older term for members of the clergy, often used in scholarly or historical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The priesthood gathered for a special ceremony.
- The priesthood met to discuss important matters.
- Respect for the priesthood is an important aspect of many faiths.
Translations
Translations of the word "priesthood" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sacerdócio
🇮🇳 पादरी पद
🇩🇪 Priestertum
🇮🇩 imamat
🇺🇦 священство
🇵🇱 kapłaństwo
🇯🇵 聖職
🇫🇷 sacerdoce
🇪🇸 sacerdocio
🇹🇷 rahiplik
🇰🇷 성직
🇸🇦 كهنوت
🇨🇿 kněžství
🇸🇰 kňazstvo
🇨🇳 祭司
🇸🇮 duhovništvo
🇮🇸 prestdómur
🇰🇿 діни қызмет
🇬🇪 სასულიერო
🇦🇿 ruhanilik
🇲🇽 sacerdocio
Etymology
The word 'priesthood' has its origins in Old English, with 'preosthād' meaning 'the office or dignity of a priest.' The concept of priesthood has been integral to various religious traditions throughout history, serving as a bridge between the divine and the human. The role of priests and the institution of the priesthood have evolved over time, reflecting changes in religious practices and beliefs.