clergy

Part of Speech

Noun (plural: clergies)

Pronunciation

/ˈklɜːrdʒi/

Definitions

• The body of all people ordained for religious duties, especially in the Christian Church.
• The collective term for ministers, priests, pastors, and other clergy members who perform sacred duties.

Usage Examples

• The clergy of the church gathered to discuss matters of doctrine and church policy.
• Many members of the clergy work tirelessly to support their communities and offer guidance to the faithful.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word "clergé," which comes from Latin "clerus," meaning "clergy, religious class," a term referring to the clergy in the early Christian Church. The word is connected to the Greek "klēros," meaning "lot" or "inheritance," which signified the portion allotted to the religious class in ancient society.

Synonyms

• Ministers
• Clerics
• Pastors
• Priests
• Preachers

Antonyms

• Laity
• Non-clerical
• Secular

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• English (UK): /ˈklɜːrdʒi/
• English (US): /ˈklɜːrdʒi/
• French: /klɛʁʒe/

Historical Usage

The term "clergy" has been in use since the early Middle Ages, particularly with the rise of the Christian Church. The clergy were distinguished from the laity (the general population) and were responsible for conducting religious rituals, providing spiritual guidance, and leading worship. Historically, clergy members had significant influence within societies, often holding key political and social positions.

Cultural Nuances

The role of the clergy has varied across cultures and religions. In Christianity, the clergy includes priests, pastors, and bishops who provide spiritual care to their communities. In Islam, the term "clergy" would generally refer to religious leaders such as imams. In some cultures, the clergy holds a revered position and is seen as the intermediary between the divine and the people, while in others, the clergy may be seen as a separate and distinct class with political or educational influence.

More Information

The clergy serves as a spiritual guide for their communities, often overseeing religious ceremonies, offering counseling, and helping with community service. In many religious traditions, clergy members are required to undergo extensive training and are expected to lead by example in their faith and lifestyle. In addition to their spiritual duties, clergy may also participate in social activism, advocating for the needs of marginalized communities, and guiding social and ethical discussions within society.