View source for Clergy

{{short description|Formal leaders within established religions}}
{{redirect|Cleric}}
{{More citations needed|date=February 2021}}
[[File:Catholic clergy during the ceremony of the consecration of the Sarajevo cathedral.png|thumb|upright=1.15|
[[Roman Catholic Church|Catholic]] clergy at the consecration of the [[Sacred Heart Cathedral, Sarajevo]] (1889). ]]

'''Clergy''' are formal leaders within established [[religion]]s. Their roles and functions vary in different religious traditions, but usually involve presiding over specific rituals and teaching their religion's [[doctrine]]s and practices. Some of the terms used for individual clergy are '''clergyman''', '''clergywoman''', '''clergyperson''', '''churchman''', '''cleric''', '''ecclesiastic''', and '''vicegerent''' while '''clerk in holy orders''' has a long history but is rarely used.{{citation needed|date=December 2021}}

In [[Christianity]], the specific names and roles of the clergy vary by [[Christian denomination|denomination]] and there is a wide range of formal and informal clergy positions, including [[deacon]]s, [[Elder (Christianity)|elders]], [[priest]]s, [[bishop]]s, [[Cardinal (Catholic Church)|cardinal]]s, [[preacher]]s, [[pastor]]s, [[presbyter]]s, [[Minister (Christianity)|minister]]s, and the [[pope]].

In [[Islam]], a religious leader is often formally or informally known as an [[imam]], [[caliph]], [[qadi]], [[mufti]], [[sheikh]], [[mullah]], [[muezzin]], and [[ulema]].

In the [[Judaism|Jewish tradition]], a religious leader is often a [[rabbi]] (teacher) or [[hazzan]] (cantor).

==Etymology==
The word ''cleric'' comes from the [[ecclesiastical Latin]] ''Clericus'', for those belonging to the priestly class. In turn, the source of the Latin word is from the [[Ecclesiastical Greek]] ''Klerikos'' (κληρικός), meaning appertaining to an inheritance, in reference to the fact that the [[Levitical]] priests of the [[Old Testament]] had no inheritance except the Lord.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |url=http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=cleric |title=cleric |encyclopedia=Online Etymology Dictionary |first=Douglas |last=Harper |publisher= |via=etymonline.com |archive-date=2016-10-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161029114927/http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=cleric |url-status=live }}</ref> "Clergy" is from two [[Old French]] words, ''clergié'' and ''clergie'', which refer to those with learning and derive from [[Medieval Latin]] ''clericatus'', from [[Late Latin]] ''clericus'' (the same word from which "cleric" is derived).<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |url= http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=clergy |title= clergy |encyclopedia= Online Etymology Dictionary |first= Douglas |last= Harper |publisher=  |via= etymonline.com |archive-date= 2016-10-29 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161029113401/http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=clergy |url-status= live }}</ref> "Clerk", which used to mean one ordained to the ministry, also derives from ''clericus''. In the Middle Ages, reading and writing were almost exclusively the domain of the priestly class, and this is the reason for the close relationship of these words.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |url=http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=clerk |title=clerk |encyclopedia=Online Etymology Dictionary |first=Douglas |last=Harper |publisher= |via=etymonline.com |archive-date=2016-10-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161029173906/http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=clerk |url-status=live }}</ref> Within [[Christianity]], especially in [[Eastern Christianity]] and formerly in Western [[Roman Catholicism]], the term ''cleric'' refers to any individual who has been ordained, including [[deacon]]s, [[priest]]s, and [[bishop]]s.<ref name=cathenc>{{cite encyclopedia| url= http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04049b.htm| title= Cleric| encyclopedia= [[Catholic Encyclopedia]]| via= newadvent.org| publisher= | date= | archive-date= 2018-08-20| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180820172913/http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04049b.htm| url-status= live}}</ref> In [[Latin Church|Latin Catholicism]], the [[tonsure]] was a prerequisite for receiving any of the [[minor orders]] or [[major orders]] before the tonsure, [[minor orders]], and the [[subdiaconate]] were abolished following the [[Second Vatican Council]].<ref>Paul VI, Apostolic letter ''motu proprio'' ''Ministeria quaedam'' nos. 2–4, 64 AAS 529 (1972).</ref> Now, the clerical state is tied to reception of the diaconate.<ref>''Ministeria quaedam'' no. 1; CIC Canon 266 §&nbsp;1.</ref> [[Minor Orders]] are still given in the [[Eastern Catholic Churches]], and those who receive those orders are 'minor clerics.'<ref>{{cite encyclopedia| publisher= CCEO Canon 327| first= George |last= Nedungatt| title= Clerics| encyclopedia= A Guide to the Eastern Code| pages= 255, 260 |year= 2002| isbn= }}</ref>

The use of the word ''cleric'' is also appropriate for [[Eastern Orthodox Church|Eastern Orthodox]] minor clergy who are tonsured in order not to trivialize orders such as those of Reader in the [[Eastern Church]], or for those who are tonsured yet have no minor or major orders. It is in this sense that the word entered the Arabic language, most commonly in Lebanon from the French, as ''kleriki'' (or, alternatively, ''cleriki'') meaning "[[seminarian]]". This is all in keeping with Eastern Orthodox concepts of clergy, which still include those who have not yet received, or do not plan to receive, the diaconate.

A priesthood is a body of [[priest]]s, [[shaman]]s, or [[oracle]]s who have special religious authority or function. The term priest is derived from the [[Greek language|Greek]] [[presbyter]] (πρεσβύτερος, ''presbýteros'', elder or senior), but is often used in the sense of [[Sacerdotalism|sacerdos]] in particular, i.e., for clergy performing [[ritual]] within the sphere of the [[Sacred (comparative religion)|sacred]] or [[numinous]] communicating with the [[gods]] on behalf of the community.

==Buddhism==
{{See also|Bhikkhu|Bhikkhunī}}
[[File:Dalai Lama 1430 Luca Galuzzi 2007crop.jpg|thumb|upright=0.7|[[14th Dalai Lama]], Tenzin Gyatso in 2007]]

[[Buddhism|Buddhist]] clergy are often collectively referred to as the [[Sangha (Buddhism)|Sangha]], and consist of various orders of male and female monks (originally called [[bhikshu]]s and [[bhikshuni]]s respectively). This diversity of monastic orders and styles was originally one community founded by [[Gautama Buddha]] during the 5th century BC living under a common set of rules (called the [[Vinaya]]). According to scriptural records, these celibate monks and nuns in the time of the Buddha lived an austere life of meditation, living as wandering beggars for nine months out of the year and remaining in retreat during the rainy season (although such a unified condition of [[Pre-sectarian Buddhism]] is questioned by some scholars). However, as Buddhism spread geographically over time—encountering different cultures, responding to new social, political, and physical environments—this single form of Buddhist monasticism diversified. The interaction between Buddhism and Tibetan [[Bon]] led to a uniquely [[Tibetan Buddhism]], within which various sects, based upon certain teacher-student lineages arose. Similarly, the interaction between Indian Buddhist monks (particularly of the Southern [[Madhyamika]] School) and Chinese [[Confucian]] and [[Taoist]] monks from c200-c900AD produced the distinctive [[Ch'an]] Buddhism. Ch'an, like the Tibetan style, further diversified into various sects based upon the transmission style of certain teachers (one of the most well known being the 'rapid enlightenment' style of [[Linji Yixuan]]), as well as in response to particular political developments such as the [[An Lushan Rebellion]] and the Buddhist persecutions of [[Emperor Wuzong of Tang|Emperor Wuzong]]. In these ways, manual labour was introduced to a practice where monks originally survived on alms; layers of garments were added where originally a single thin robe sufficed; etc. This adaptation of form and roles of Buddhist monastic practice continued after the transmission to Japan. For example, monks took on administrative functions for the Emperor in particular secular communities (registering births, marriages, deaths), thereby creating Buddhist 'priests'. Again, in response to various historic attempts to suppress Buddhism (most recently during the [[Meiji Era]]), the practice of celibacy was relaxed and Japanese monks allowed to marry. This form was then transmitted to [[Korea]], during later Japanese occupation,<ref>[[Korean Buddhism#Buddhism during Japanese colonial rule]]</ref> where celibate and non-celibate monks today exist in the same sects. (Similar patterns can also be observed in Tibet during various historic periods multiple forms of monasticism have co-existed such as "[[ngagpa]]" lamas, and times at which celibacy was relaxed). As these varied styles of Buddhist monasticism are transmitted to Western cultures, still more new forms are being created.

In general, the [[Mahayana]] schools of Buddhism tend to be more culturally adaptive and innovative with forms, while [[Theravada]] schools (the form generally practiced in [[Thailand]], [[Burma]], [[Cambodia]], and [[Sri Lanka]]) tend to take a much more conservative view of monastic life, and continue to observe precepts that forbid monks from touching women or working in certain secular roles. This broad difference in approach led to a major schism among Buddhist monastics in about the 4th century BCE, creating the [[Early Buddhist Schools]].

While female monastic (''[[bhikkhuni]]'') lineages existed in most Buddhist countries at one time, the [[Theravada]] lineages of Southeast Asia died out during the 14th-15th Century AD. As there is some debate about whether the bhikkhuni lineage (in the more expansive Vinaya forms) was transmitted to Tibet, the status and future of female Buddhist clergy in this tradition is sometimes disputed by strict adherents to the Theravadan style. Some Mahayana sects, notably in the United States (such as [[San Francisco Zen Center]]) are working to reconstruct the female branches of what they consider a common, interwoven lineage.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.sfzc.org/sp_download/liturgy/35_Names_of_Women_Ancestors.pdf |title=Names of Women Ancestors |access-date=2013-10-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111117183312/http://www.sfzc.org/sp_download/liturgy/35_Names_of_Women_Ancestors.pdf |archive-date=2011-11-17 }}</ref>

The diversity of Buddhist traditions makes it difficult to generalize about Buddhist clergy. In the United States, [[Pure Land]] priests of the Japanese diaspora serve a role very similar to Protestant ministers of the Christian tradition. Meanwhile, reclusive Theravada forest monks in Thailand live a life devoted to meditation and the practice of austerities in small communities in rural Thailand- a very different life from even their city-dwelling counterparts, who may be involved primarily in teaching, the study of scripture, and the administration of the nationally organized (and government sponsored) Sangha. In the Zen traditions of China, Korea and Japan, manual labor is an important part of religious discipline; meanwhile, in the Theravada tradition, prohibitions against monks working as laborers and farmers continue to be generally observed.

Currently in North America, there are both celibate and non-celibate clergy in a variety of Buddhist traditions from around the world. In some cases, they are forest dwelling monks of the Theravada tradition; in other cases, they are married clergy of a Japanese Zen lineage and may work a secular job in addition to their role in the Buddhist community. There is also a growing realization that traditional training in ritual and meditation as well as philosophy may not be sufficient to meet the needs and expectations of American lay people. Some communities have begun exploring the need for training in counseling skills as well. Along these lines, at least two fully accredited Master of Divinity programs are currently available: one at [[Naropa University]] in Boulder, CO and one at the University of the West in Rosemead, CA.

Titles for Buddhist clergy include:
* [[Bhikkhu]]/[[Bhikkhu|Bhikṣu]] and [[Bhikkhunī|Bhikkhuṇī]]/[[Bhikkhunī|Bhikṣuṇī]]
* [[Samanera|Sāmaṇera]]/[[Samanera|Śrāmaṇera]] and [[Samanera|Sāmaṇerī]]/[[Samanera|Śrāmaṇerī]] or [[Samanera|Śrāmaṇerikā]]

In Theravada:
* [[Acharya]]
* [[Ajahn]]
* [[Anagarika]]
* [[Ayya (Pali word)|Ayya]]
* [[Bhante]]
* {{Lang|si-latn|[[Dasa sil mata]]|italic=no}}
* [[Luang Por]]
* [[Maechi|Maechi or Mae chee]]
* [[Buddhist monk|Phra]]
* [[Sayadaw]]
* [[Śikṣamāṇā|Sikkhamānā]]
* [[Thilashin]]

In Mahayana:
* [[Rōshi]]
* [[Zen master]]

In Vajrayana:
* [[Ayya (Pali word)|Ayya]]
* [[Geshe]]
* [[Guru]]
* [[Karmapa]]
* [[Lama]]
** [[Dalai Lama]]
** [[Panchen Lama]]
* [[Rinpoche]]/[[Rinpoche|Rimpoche]]
* [[Tertön]]
* [[Tulku]]

==Christianity==
{{Main|Minister (Christianity)}}

In general, Christian clergy are [[ordained]]; that is, they are set apart for specific [[Catholic ministry|ministry]] in religious rites. Others who have definite roles in worship but who are not ordained (e.g., [[Laity|laypeople]] acting as [[acolytes]]) are generally not considered clergy, even though they may require some sort of official approval to exercise these ministries.

Types of clerics are distinguished from offices, even when the latter are commonly or exclusively occupied by clerics. A Roman Catholic cardinal, for instance, is almost without exception a cleric, but a cardinal is not a type of cleric. An archbishop is not a distinct type of cleric, but is simply a bishop who occupies a particular position with special authority. Conversely, a youth minister at a [[parish]] may or may not be a cleric. Different churches have different systems of clergy, though churches with similar [[ecclesiastical polity|polity]] have similar systems.

===Anglicanism===
{{Main|Anglican ministry}}
[[File:IEAB 2006 mauricio saulo crosier.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|Bishop Maurício Andrade, [[Primate (bishop)|primate]] of the [[Anglican Episcopal Church of Brazil]], gives a [[crosier]] to Bishop Saulo Barros.]]

In [[Anglicanism]], clergy consist of the orders of [[deacon]]s, [[priest]]s (presbyters), and [[bishop]]s in ascending order of seniority. ''[[Canon (priest)|Canon]]'', ''[[archdeacon]]'', ''[[archbishop]]'' and the like are specific positions within these orders. Bishops are typically overseers, presiding over a [[diocese]] composed of many [[parish]]es, with an archbishop presiding over a [[province]] in most, which is a group of dioceses. A parish (generally a single church) is looked after by one or more priests, although one priest may be responsible for several parishes. New clergy are first ordained as deacons. Those seeking to become priests are usually ordained to the priesthood around a year later. Since the 1960s some Anglican churches have reinstituted the permanent diaconate, in addition to the transitional diaconate, as a ministry focused on bridges the church and the world, especially ministry to those on the margins of society.

For a short period of history before the ordination of women as deacons, priests and bishops began within Anglicanism, women could be [[deaconess]]es. Although they were usually considered having a ministry distinct from deacons they often had similar ministerial responsibilities.

In Anglicanism all clergy are permitted to marry. In most national churches women may become deacons or priests, but while fifteen out of 38 national churches allow for the consecration of women as bishops, only five have ordained any. Celebration of the [[Eucharist]] is reserved for priests and bishops.

National Anglican churches are presided over by one or more [[primate (bishop)|primates]] or [[metropolitan bishop|metropolitans]] (archbishops or presiding bishops). The senior archbishop of the [[Anglican Communion]] is the [[Archbishop of Canterbury]], who acts as leader of the [[Church of England]] and 'first among equals' of the primates of all Anglican churches.

Being a deacon, priest or bishop is considered a function of the person and not a job. When priests retire they are still priests even if they no longer have any active ministry. However, they only hold the basic rank after retirement. Thus a retired archbishop can only be considered a bishop (though it is possible to refer to "Bishop John Smith, the former Archbishop of York"), a canon or archdeacon is a priest on retirement and does not hold any additional honorifics.

For the forms of address for Anglican clergy, see [[Forms of address in the United Kingdom]].

<gallery>
File:SirGeorgeFlemingBt2.jpg| [[Sir George Fleming, 2nd Baronet]], British churchman.
File:CWLeffingwell.JPG| [[Charles Wesley Leffingwell]], Episcopal priest. 
</gallery>

===Baptist===
The [[Baptists|Baptist]] tradition only recognizes two ordained positions in the church as being the elders (pastors) and deacons as outlined in the third chapter of I Timothy<ref>{{bibleverse|1Tim|3}}</ref> in the Bible.

===Catholic Church ===
{{Catholic Church hierarchy sidebar}}
{{See also|Bishops in the Catholic Church|Priesthood in the Catholic Church|Deacon}}
[[File:Archbishop Jose Palma delivering his homily.jpg|thumb|left|[[Archbishop]] [[Jose S. Palma]] with his assistant ministers during [[Pontifical High Mass]]]]
[[File:Koorkledij (vlnr Jean-Pierre Delville-Franco Coppola-Jozef De Kesel - Guy Harpigny).jpg|thumb|left|[[Bishop (Catholic Church)|Bishop]] [[Jean-Pierre Delville]], [[nuncio]] [[Franco Coppola]], [[Cardinal (Catholicism)|Cardinal]] [[Jozef De Kesel]], [[Bishop (Catholic Church)|Bishop]] [[Guy Harpigny]]]]

[[Holy orders|Ordained]] clergy in the [[Catholic Church]] are either deacons, priests, or bishops belonging to the diaconate, the presbyterate, or the episcopate, respectively. Among bishops, some are [[metropolitan bishop|metropolitans]], [[archbishop]]s, or [[patriarch]]s. The [[pope]] is the [[bishop of Rome]], the supreme and universal hierarch of the Church, and his authorization is now required for the ordination of all Roman Catholic bishops. With rare exceptions, [[cardinal (Catholicism)|cardinals]] are bishops, although it was not always so; formerly, some cardinals were people who had received [[clerical tonsure]], but not [[Holy Orders (Catholic Church)|Holy Orders]]. [[Secular clergy]] are ministers, such as deacons and priests, who do not belong to a religious institute and live in the world at large, rather than a religious institute ([[Secular institute|''saeculum'']]). The [[Holy See]] supports the activity of its clergy by the [[Congregation for the Clergy]] ([https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cclergy/]), a [[dicastery]] of [[Roman curia]].

[[Canon law (Catholic Church)|Canon Law]] indicates (canon 207) that "[b]y divine institution, there are among the Christian faithful in the Church sacred ministers who in law are also called clerics; the other members of the Christian faithful are called lay persons".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__PT.HTM |title=Code of Canon Law, Canon 207 |access-date=25 November 2011 |archive-date=12 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200312112835/http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__PT.HTM |url-status=live }}</ref> This distinction of a separate ministry was formed in the early times of Christianity; one early source reflecting this distinction, with the three ranks or orders of [[bishop (Catholic Church)|bishop]], [[presbyter|priest]] and [[deacon]], is the writings of Saint [[Ignatius of Antioch]].

Holy Orders is one of the [[Sacraments of the Catholic Church|Seven Sacraments]], enumerated at the [[Council of Trent]], that the Magisterium considers to be of divine institution. In the Catholic Church, only men are permitted to be clerics.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ordinatio Sacerdotalis (May 22, 1994) {{!}} John Paul II |url=https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1994/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_19940522_ordinatio-sacerdotalis.html |access-date=2024-10-17 |website=www.vatican.va}}</ref>

In the [[Latin Church]] before 1972, [[tonsure]] admitted someone to the clerical state, after which he could receive the four [[minor orders]] ([[Ostiarius|ostiary]], [[lector]]ate, order of exorcists, order of acolytes) and then the [[major orders]] ([[subdeacon|subdiaconate]], [[Deacon|diaconate]], [[presbytera]]te, and finally the [[episcopate]]), which according to Roman Catholic doctrine is "the fullness of Holy Orders". Since 1972 the minor orders and the subdiaconate have been replaced by [[Catholic ministry|lay ministries]] and clerical tonsure no longer takes place, except in some [[Traditionalist Catholic]] groups, and the clerical state is acquired, even in those groups, by Holy Orders.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/paul_vi/motu_proprio/documents/hf_p-vi_motu-proprio_19720815_ministeria-quaedam_lt.html|title=Ministeria quaedam - Disciplina circa Primam Tonsuram, Ordines Minores et Subdiaconatus in Ecclesia Latina innovatur, Litterae Apostolicae Motu Proprio datae, Die 15 m. Augusti a. 1972, Paulus PP.VI - Paulus PP. VI|website=The Holy See|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=2011-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111103110807/https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/paul_vi/motu_proprio/documents/hf_p-vi_motu-proprio_19720815_ministeria-quaedam_lt.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the Latin Church the initial level of the three ranks of Holy Orders is that of the diaconate. In addition to these three orders of clerics, some [[Eastern Catholic Churches|Eastern Catholic]], or "Uniate", Churches have what are called "minor clerics".<ref name="vatican.va">{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_19901018_codex-can-eccl-orient-1_lt.html#TITULUS_X|title=Codex Canonum Ecclesiarum orientalium, die XVIII Octobris anno MCMXC - Ioannes Paulus PP. II - Ioannes Paulus II|website=The Holy See|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=2011-06-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604154301/https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_19901018_codex-can-eccl-orient-1_lt.html#TITULUS_X|url-status=live}}</ref>

Members of [[institute of consecrated life|institutes of consecrated life]] and [[society of apostolic life|societies of apostolic life]] are clerics only if they have received Holy Orders. Thus, unordained monks, [[friar]]s, [[nun]]s, and religious brothers and [[Nun#Distinction between a nun and a religious sister|sister]]s are not part of the clergy.

The Code of Canon Law and the Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches prescribe that every cleric must be enrolled or "[[incardination and excardination|incardinated]]" in a [[diocese]] or its equivalent (an [[apostolic vicariate]], [[territorial abbey]], [[personal prelature]], etc.) or in a [[religious institute]], [[society of apostolic life]] or [[secular institute]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__PX.HTM|title=Code of Canon Law - IntraText|website=The Holy See|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=2021-01-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125062626/http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__PX.HTM|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="vatican.va"/> The need for this requirement arose because of the trouble caused from the earliest years of the Church by unattached or vagrant clergy subject to no ecclesiastical authority and often causing scandal wherever they went.<ref>John P. Beal, James A. Coriden, Thomas J. Green, ''New Commentary on the Code of Canon Law'' (Paulist Press 2002 {{ISBN|9780809140664}}), p. 329</ref>

Current canon law prescribes that to be ordained a priest, an education is required of two years of [[philosophy]] and four of [[theology]], including study of dogmatic and moral theology, the Holy Scriptures, and canon law have to be studied within a [[seminary]] or an ecclesiastical faculty at a university.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__PW.HTM|title=Code of Canon Law - IntraText|website=The Holy See|access-date=2020-03-15|archive-date=2011-05-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110508022209/https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__PW.HTM|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_19901018_codex-can-eccl-orient-1_lt.html#TITULUS_X |title=Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches, canons 342-356 |access-date=2020-03-15 |archive-date=2011-06-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604154301/https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_19901018_codex-can-eccl-orient-1_lt.html#TITULUS_X |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[Clerical celibacy]] is a requirement for almost all clergy in the predominant Latin Church, with the exception of deacons who do not intend to become priests. Exceptions are sometimes admitted for ordination to transitional diaconate and priesthood on a case-by-case basis for married clergymen of other churches or communities who become Catholics, but consecration of already married men as [[bishop (Catholic Church)|bishops]] is excluded in both the Latin and [[Eastern Catholic Churches]] (see [[Personal ordinariate#Married former Anglican clergy and rules on celibacy|personal ordinariate]]). [[Clerical marriage]] is not allowed and therefore, if those for whom in some [[particular Church]] celibacy is optional (such as permanent deacons in the Latin Church) wish to marry, they must do so before ordination. Eastern Catholic Churches while allowing married men to be ordained, do not allow [[clerical marriage]] after ordination: their [[parish priest]]s are often married, but must marry before being ordained to the priesthood.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Rusyn-Ukrainians of Czechoslovakia: An Historical Survey| first= W. |last=W. Braumüller|year= 2006| isbn=978-3-7003-0312-1| page =17 |publisher=University of Michigan Press|quote= }}</ref> [[Eastern Catholic Churches]] require celibacy only for bishops.

===Eastern Orthodoxy===
{{Eastern Orthodox sidebar|expanded=organization}}
[[File:Orthodox clergy.jpg|thumb|upright=0.7|left|[[Eastern Orthodox Church|Orthodox Christian]] clergy: [[bishop]] (right, at [[altar]]), [[priest]] (left), and two [[deacon]]s (in gold)]]

The [[Eastern Orthodox Church]] has three ranks of holy orders: bishop, priest, and deacon. These are the same offices identified in the [[New Testament]] and found in the [[Early Church]], as testified by the writings of the [[Holy Fathers]]. Each of these ranks is ordained through the [[Sacred Mystery]] (sacrament) of the [[laying on of hands]] (called ''[[Christian laying on of hands|cheirotonia]]'') by bishops. Priests and deacons are ordained by their own [[diocesan bishop]], while bishops are [[consecration|consecrated]] through the laying on of hands of at least three other bishops.

Within each of these three ranks there are found a number of titles. Bishops may have the title of [[archbishop]], [[metropolitan bishop|metropolitan]], and [[patriarch]], all of which are considered [[honorific]]s. Among the Orthodox, all bishops are considered equal, though an individual may have a place of higher or lower honor, and each has his place within the [[order of precedence]]. Priests (also called [[presbyter]]s) may (or may not) have the title of [[archpriest]], [[protopresbyter]] (also called "protopriest", or "protopope"), [[hieromonk]] (a [[monk]] who has been ordained to the priesthood) [[archimandrite]] (a senior hieromonk) and [[hegumen]] (abbot). Deacons may have the title of [[hierodeacon]] (a monk who has been ordained to the deaconate), [[archdeacon]] or [[protodeacon]].

The lower clergy are not ordained through ''[[Christian laying on of hands|cheirotonia]]'' (laying on of hands) but through a blessing known as ''cheirothesia'' (setting-aside). These clerical ranks are [[subdeacon]], [[Reader (liturgy)|reader]] and [[altar server]] (also known as [[taper-bearer]]). Some churches have a separate service for the blessing of a [[cantor (church)|cantor]].

Ordination of a bishop, priest, deacon or subdeacon must be conferred during the [[Divine Liturgy]] (Eucharist)—though in some churches it is permitted to ordain up through deacon during the [[Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts]]—and no more than a single individual can be ordained to the same rank in any one service. Numerous members of the lower clergy may be ordained at the same service, and their blessing usually takes place during the [[Little Hours]] prior to Liturgy, or may take place as a separate service. The blessing of readers and taper-bearers is usually combined into a single service. Subdeacons are ordained during the Little Hours, but the ceremonies surrounding his blessing continue through the Divine Liturgy, specifically during the [[Great Entrance]].

Bishops are usually drawn from the ranks of the archimandrites, and are required to be celibate; however, a non-monastic priest may be ordained to the episcopate if he no longer lives with his wife (following Canon XII of the [[Quinisext Council|Quinisext Council of Trullo]])<ref>Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers [http://www.ccel.org/fathers2/NPNF2-14/Npnf2-14-136.htm#P6201_1388746 CCEL.org] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050720015521/http://www.ccel.org/fathers2/NPNF2-14/Npnf2-14-136.htm#P6201_1388746 |date=2005-07-20 }}</ref> In contemporary usage such a non-monastic priest is usually [[tonsure]]d to the monastic state, and then elevated to archimandrite, at some point prior to his consecration to the episcopacy. Although not a formal or canonical prerequisite, at present bishops are often required to have earned a university degree, typically but not necessarily in [[theology]].

Usual titles are ''Your Holiness'' for a patriarch (with ''Your All-Holiness'' reserved for the [[Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople]]), ''Your Beatitude'' for an archbishop/metropolitan overseeing an [[autocephaly|autocephalous Church]], ''Your Eminence'' for an archbishop/metropolitan generally, ''Master'' or ''Your Grace'' for a bishop and ''Father'' for priests, deacons and monks,<ref>"[http://www.orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/clergy_etiquette.aspx Clergy Etiquette] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091122025012/http://www.orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/clergy_etiquette.aspx |date=2009-11-22 }}", Orthodox Christian Information Center.</ref> although there are variations between the various Orthodox Churches. For instance, in Churches associated with the Greek tradition, while the Ecumenical Patriarch is addressed as "Your All-Holiness", all other Patriarchs (and archbishops/metropolitans who oversee autocephalous Churches) are addressed as "Your Beatitude".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://goarch.org/resources/etiquette|title=Forms of Addresses and Salutations for Orthodox Clergy |website=Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206164329/http://goarch.org/resources/etiquette |archive-date= Feb 6, 2017 }}</ref>

Orthodox priests, deacons, and subdeacons must be either married or celibate (preferably monastic) prior to ordination, but may not marry after ordination. ''Re''marriage of clergy following divorce or widowhood is forbidden. Married clergy are considered as best-suited to staff parishes, as a priest with a family is thought better qualified to counsel his flock.<ref>Ken Parry, David Melling, Dimitri Brady, Sidney Griffith & John Healey (eds.), 1999, ''The Blackwell Dictionary of Eastern Christianity'', Oxford, pp116-7</ref> It has been common practice in the Russian tradition for unmarried, non-monastic clergy to occupy academic posts.

===Methodism===
In the [[United Methodist Church|Methodist churches]], candidates for ordination are "licensed" to the ministry for a period of time (typically one to three years) prior to being ordained.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Candidacy Towards Ordination {{!}} SCC, United Methodist Church |url=https://www.umcsc.org/wp-content/uploads/CANDIDACY-TO-ORDINATION-GUIDE.pdf}}</ref> This period typically is spent performing the duties of ministry under the guidance, supervision, and evaluation of a more senior, ordained minister. In some denominations, however, licensure is a permanent, rather than a transitional state for ministers assigned to certain specialized ministries, such as music ministry or youth ministry.

===Latter-day Saints===
{{Main|Priesthood (Latter Day Saints)}}
{{Primary sources section|date=November 2023}}

[[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]] (LDS Church) has no dedicated clergy, and is governed instead by a system of lay priesthood leaders. Locally, unpaid and part-time [[Priesthood (Latter Day Saints)|priesthood holders]] lead the church; the worldwide church is supervised by full-time [[General authority|general authorities]], some of whom receive modest living allowances.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/1985/11/questions-and-answers?lang=eng|title=Questions and Answers - ensign|website=ChurchofJesusChrist.org|access-date=2019-07-15|archive-date=2020-02-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219193137/https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/1985/11/questions-and-answers?lang=eng|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/General_Authorities "General Authorities,"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141111085647/http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/General_Authorities |date=2014-11-11 }} [[Encyclopedia of Mormonism]], p. 539</ref> No formal theological training is required for any position. The church believes that all of its leaders are called by [[revelation (Latter Day Saints)|revelation]] and the [[laying on of hands]] by one who holds authority. The church also believes that [[Jesus Christ]] stands at the head of the church and leads the church through revelation given to the [[President of the Church (LDS Church)|President of the Church]], the [[First Presidency (LDS Church)|First Presidency]], and [[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (LDS Church)|Twelve Apostles]], all of whom are recognized as [[prophet, seer, and revelator|prophets, seers, and revelators]] and have lifetime tenure. Below these men in the hierarchy are [[quorum (Latter Day Saints)|quorums]] of [[Seventy (LDS Church)|seventy]], which are assigned geographically over the [[Area (LDS Church)|areas]] of the church. Locally, the church is divided into [[stake (Latter Day Saints)|stakes]]; each stake has a [[stake president|president]], who is assisted by two counselors and a [[high council (Latter Day Saints)|high council]]. The stake is made up of several individual congregations, which are called "[[ward (LDS Church)|wards]]" or "branches". Wards are led by a [[Bishop (Latter Day Saints)|bishop]] and his counselors and branches by a [[branch president|president]] and his counselors. Local leaders serve in their positions until released by their supervising authorities.<ref>The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, [http://www.mormon.org/faq/no-paid-clergy "Why Don't Mormons Have Paid Clergy?"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508061814/http://www.mormon.org/faq/no-paid-clergy |date=2014-05-08 }}, mormon.org.</ref>

Generally, all worthy males age 12 and above receive the [[priesthood (LDS Church)|priesthood]]. Youth age 12 to 18 are ordained to the [[Aaronic priesthood (LDS Church)|Aaronic priesthood]] as [[deacon (Latter Day Saints)|deacons]], [[teacher (Latter Day Saints)|teachers]], or [[Priest (Latter Day Saints)|priests]], which authorizes them to perform certain [[ordinance (Latter Day Saints)|ordinances]] and sacraments. Adult males are ordained to the [[Melchizedek priesthood (Latter Day Saints)|Melchizedek priesthood]], as [[elder (Latter Day Saints)|elders]], seventies, [[high priest (Latter Day Saints)|high priests]], or [[Patriarch (Latter Day Saints)|patriarchs]] in that priesthood, which is concerned with spiritual leadership of the church. Although the term "clergy" is not typically used in the LDS Church, it would most appropriately apply to local bishops and stake presidents. Merely holding an office in the priesthood does not imply authority over other church members or agency to act on behalf of the entire church.

===Lutheranism===
[[File:LutheranClergy.JPG|thumb|upright=0.7|right|Lutheran pastor confirming the youth of his congregation.]]

From a religious standpoint there is only one order of clergy in the Lutheran church, namely the office of [[pastor]]. This is stated in the [[Augsburg Confession]], article 14.<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Augsburg Confession|url=https://www.gutenberg.org/files/275/275-h/275-h.htm#link2H_4_0015|access-date=2022-02-07|website=www.gutenberg.org|archive-date=2021-06-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624205444/https://www.gutenberg.org/files/275/275-h/275-h.htm#link2H_4_0015|url-status=live}}</ref> Some Lutheran churches, like the state churches of Scandinavia, refer to this office as [[priest]].

However, for practical and historical reasons, Lutheran churches tend to have different roles of pastors or priests, and a clear hierarchy. Some pastors are functioning as [[deacon]]s or provosts, others as parish priests and yet some as [[bishop]]s and even [[archbishop]]s. Lutherans have no principal aversion against having a pope as the leading bishop. But the Roman Catholic view of the papacy is considered antichristian.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Power and Primacy of the Pope (1537): Smalcald Theologians|url=https://www.projectwittenberg.org/pub/resources/text/wittenberg/concord/web/smc-pope.html|access-date=2022-02-07|website=www.projectwittenberg.org|archive-date=2022-02-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220207212812/https://www.projectwittenberg.org/pub/resources/text/wittenberg/concord/web/smc-pope.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In many European churches where Lutheranism was the [[state religion]], the clergy were also [[civil servants]], and their responsibilities extended well beyond spiritual leadership, encompassing government administration, education, and the implementation of government policies. Government administration was organized around the church's parishes. In rural parishes the parish priest tended to be the foremost government official. In more important parishes or cities a bishop or governor would outrank parish priests.

The [[Book of Concord]], a compendium of doctrine for the [[Lutheran Church]]es allows ordination to be called a sacrament.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Confident.Faith |date=2019-12-10 |title=Art. XIV: Of Ecclesiastical Order {{!}} Book of Concord |url=https://thebookofconcord.org/apology-of-the-augsburg-confession/article-xiv/ |access-date=2024-10-17 |website=thebookofconcord.org |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Reformed===
The [[Presbyterian Church (USA)]] ordains two types of [[presbyter]]s or elders, teaching (pastor) and ruling (leaders of the congregation which form a council with the pastors). Teaching elders are seminary trained and ordained as a presbyter and set aside on behalf of the whole denomination to the ministry of Word and Sacrament. Ordinarily, teaching elders are installed by a presbytery as pastor of a congregation. Ruling elders, after receiving training, may be commissioned by a presbytery to serve as a pastor of a congregation, as well as preach and administer sacraments.<ref>Presbyterian Church (USA). ''Book of Order: 2009-2011'' (Louisville: Office of the General Assembly), Form of Government, Chapter 6 and 14. See also {{cite web |url=http://www.pcusa.org/theologyandworship/issues/unplumin.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040307070026/http://www.pcusa.org/theologyandworship/issues/unplumin.pdf |archive-date=2004-03-07 |title=Theology and Worship }}</ref>

In [[Congregationalism|Congregationalist churches]], local churches are free to hire (and often ordain) their own clergy, although the parent denominations typically maintain lists of suitable candidates seeking appointment to local church ministries and encourage local churches to consider these individuals when filling available positions.

==Hinduism==
[[File:Hindu priest, Umaria district, MP, India.jpg|thumb|Hindu priest in Umaria district, [[Madhya Pradesh|M. P.]], India.]]
A '''Hindu priest''' may refer to either of the following:
* A [[pujari]] (IAST: Pūjārī) or an archaka is a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] temple priest.<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2018-09-23 |title=Arcaka: 11 definitions |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/arcaka |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en |archive-date=2022-09-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220928161433/https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/arcaka |url-status=live }}</ref>
* A [[purohita]] (IAST: Purōhita) officiates and performs rituals and ceremonies, and is usually linked to a specific family or, historically, a dynasty.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2014-08-03 |title=Purohita: 24 definitions |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/purohita |access-date=2022-09-18 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en |archive-date=2022-09-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920170326/https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/purohita |url-status=live }}</ref> 
*A [[sadhu]] (IAST: Sādhu) is an ascetic who renounced his worldly life and devoted to [[Moksha|liberation]] from [[Samsara|cycle of life of birth, death and rebirth]]. A Sadhu is also called [[Sanyasi|Sannyasa]]. Ascetics are both male and female. Their duty is preach religion to people.
*A [[Brahmacharya|brahmachari]] is a person initiated into monasticism. He is a trainee and his duty is to learn and preach scriptures to people. Female initiate is called Brahmacharini.<ref>{{cite web |title=Swamins and Brahmacharins |url=https://www.chinmayamission.com/who-we-are/acharyas/ |access-date=2024-07-26 |language=en-US}}</ref>

Traditionally, priests have predominantly come from the Brahmana class, whose male members are designated for the function in the [[Hindu texts]].<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Dubois |first1=Jean Antoine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ki1BAQAAMAAJ&dq=brahmins+priesthood&pg=PA15 |title=Hindu Manners, Customs and Ceremonies |last2=Beauchamp |first2=Henry King |date=1897 |publisher=Clarendon Press |page=15 |language=en |access-date=2023-12-24 |archive-date=2023-12-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231224230237/https://books.google.com/books?id=Ki1BAQAAMAAJ&dq=brahmins+priesthood&pg=PA15 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Gandhi |first=Dr Srinivasan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9g5tDwAAQBAJ&dq=priesthood+hinduism&pg=PT266 |title=Hinduism And Brotherhood |date=2018-09-05 |publisher=Notion Press |isbn=978-1-64324-834-9 |page=266 |language=en |access-date=2023-12-24 |archive-date=2023-12-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231224230237/https://books.google.com/books?id=9g5tDwAAQBAJ&dq=priesthood+hinduism&pg=PT266 |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[Hindus|Hindu]] priests are known to perform prayer services, often referred to as [[Puja (Hinduism)|''puja'']]. Priests are identified as [[Pandit|''pandits'']] or ''pujaris'' amongst the devotees.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |title=Hindu Religious Worker Definitions |url=https://www.hinduamerican.org/hindu-religious-worker-definitions |website=Hindu American Foundation |access-date=23 June 2021 |archive-date=24 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624204647/https://www.hinduamerican.org/hindu-religious-worker-definitions |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Braja Kishore Goswami]] "Yuvaaraj" is one such famous spiritual leader of the Hindu religion.

==Islam==
[[Islam]], like [[Judaism]], has no clergy in the [[sacerdotal]] sense; there is no institution resembling the Christian priesthood. Islamic religious leaders do not "serve as intermediaries between mankind and God",<ref name="pipes-1983-38">{{cite book |last1=Pipes |first1=Daniel |title=In the Path of God: Islam and Political Power |date=1983 |publisher=Routledge. |page=38 |isbn=978-1-351-51291-6 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bK00DwAAQBAJ&q=clerics+in+Islam+are+more+like+rabbi+than+priest+daniel+pipes&pg=PT61 |access-date=5 June 2018 |archive-date=18 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318083708/https://books.google.com/books?id=bK00DwAAQBAJ&q=clerics+in+Islam+are+more+like+rabbi+than+priest+daniel+pipes&pg=PT61#v=onepage&q=clerics%20in%20Islam%20are%20more%20like%20rabbi%20than%20priest%20daniel%20pipes&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref> have "process of ordination",<ref>{{cite book|last1 = Brown|first1 = Jonathan A.C.|author-link = Jonathan A.C. Brown|title = Misquoting Muhammad: The Challenge and Choices of Interpreting the Prophet's Legacy|date = 2014|publisher = [[Oneworld Publications]]|isbn = 978-1-78074-420-9|url = https://archive.org/details/misquotingmuhamm0000brow/page/24|access-date = 4 June 2018|ref = JACBMM2014|page = [https://archive.org/details/misquotingmuhamm0000brow/page/24 24]}}</ref> nor "sacramental functions".<ref name="pipes-1983-38"/> They have been said to resemble more rabbis, serving as "exemplars, teachers, judges, and community leaders", providing religious rules to the pious on "even the most minor and private" matters.<ref name="pipes-1983-38"/>

The title ''[[mullah]]'' (a Persian variation of the Arabic ''maula'', "master"), commonly translated "cleric" in the West and thought to be analogous to "priest" or "rabbi", is a title of address for any educated or respected figure, not even necessarily (though frequently) religious. The title ''[[sheikh]]'' ("elder") is used similarly.

Most of the religious titles associated with Islam are scholastic or academic in nature: they recognize the holder's exemplary knowledge of the theory and practice of ''ad-dín'' (religion), and do not confer any particular spiritual or sacerdotal authority. The most general such title is ''`alim'' (pl. ''[[Ulama|`ulamah]]''), or "scholar". This word describes someone engaged in advanced study of the traditional Islamic sciences ''(`ulum)'' at an Islamic university or ''[[Madrasa|madrasah jami`ah]]''. A scholar's opinions may be valuable to others because of his/her knowledge in religious matters; but such opinions should not generally be considered binding, infallible, or absolute, as the individual Muslim is directly responsible to God for their own religious beliefs and practice.

There is no sacerdotal office corresponding to the Christian priest or Jewish ''kohen'', as there is no sacrificial rite of atonement comparable to the [[Eucharist]] or the [[Korban]]. [[Ritual slaughter]] or ''[[dhabihah]]'', including the ''[[Qurban (Islamic ritual sacrifice)|qurban]]'' at ''[[Eid al-Adha|`Idu l-Ad'ha]],'' may be performed by any adult Muslim who is physically able and properly trained. Professional butchers may be employed, but they are not necessary; in the case of the ''qurban'', it is especially preferable to slaughter one's own animal if possible.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qurbani Meat Distribution Rules |url=https://www.muslimaid.org/what-we-do/religious-dues/qurbani/qurbani-rules/ |access-date=2022-08-22 |website=Muslim Aid |language=en |archive-date=2022-08-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220822124004/https://www.muslimaid.org/what-we-do/religious-dues/qurbani/qurbani-rules/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Sunni===
[[File:Gérôme - Mufti Reading in His Prayer Stool.jpg|thumb|A [[Sunni Islam|Sunni]] jurist ([[mufti]]) delivering a sermon from a pulpit]]

The nearest analogue among Sunni Muslims to the parish priest or pastor, or to the "pulpit [[rabbi]]" of a synagogue, is called the ''imam khatib.'' This compound title is merely a common combination of two elementary offices: leader ''(imam)'' of the congregational prayer, which in most mosques is performed at the times of all daily prayers; and preacher ''(khatib)'' of the sermon or ''khutba'' of the obligatory congregational prayer at midday every Friday. Although either duty can be performed by anyone who is regarded as qualified by the congregation, at most well-established mosques ''imam khatib'' is a permanent part-time or full-time position. He may be elected by the local community, or appointed by an outside authority—e.g., the national government, or the [[waqf]] that sustains the mosque. There is no ordination as such; the only requirement for appointment as an ''imam khatib'' is recognition as someone of sufficient learning and virtue to perform both duties on a regular basis, and to instruct the congregation in the basics of Islam.

The title ''[[Hafiz (Qur'an)|hafiz]]'' (lit. "preserver") is awarded to one who has memorized the entire Qur'an, often by attending a special course for the purpose; the ''imam khatib'' of a mosque is frequently (though not always) a ''hafiz.''

There are several specialist offices pertaining to the study and administration of Islamic law or ''[[Sharia|shari`ah]].'' A scholar with a specialty in ''fiqh'' or jurisprudence is known as a ''[[faqih]]''. A ''[[qadi]]'' is a judge in an Islamic court. A ''[[mufti]]'' is a scholar who has completed an advanced course of study which qualifies him to issue judicial opinions or ''[[fatwa|fatawah]]''.

===Shia===
[[File:Nahavandi.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Iranian peoples|Iranian]] [[Shia Islam|Shi'a]] scholar and author Sheikh Ali Akbar Nahavandi.]]

In modern [[Shia Islam]], scholars play a more prominent role in the daily lives of Muslims than in Sunni Islam; and there is a hierarchy of higher titles of scholastic authority, such as ''[[Ayatollah]]''. Traditionally a more complex title has been used in [[Twelver]] Shi`ism, namely ''marjaʿ at-taqlid''. ''[[Marjaʿ]]'' (pl. ''marajiʿ''{{Hair space}}) means "source", and ''taqlid'' refers to religious emulation or imitation. Lay Shi`ah must identify a specific ''marjaʿ'' whom they emulate, according to his legal opinions ''(fatawah)'' or other writings. On several occasions, the ''Marjaʿiyyat'' (community of all ''marajiʿ{{Hair space}}'') has been limited to a single individual, in which case his rulings have been applicable to all those living in the Twelver Shi'ah world. Of broader importance has been the role of the ''mujtahid'', a cleric of superior knowledge who has the authority to perform ''[[ijtihad]]'' (independent judgment). Mujtahids are few in number, but it is from their ranks that the ''marajiʿ at-taqlid'' are drawn. However these titles are more related to scholarly rank and piety than a hierarchy like that of a priesthood.

===Sufism===
The spiritual guidance function known in many Christian denominations as "pastoral care" is fulfilled for many Muslims by a ''murshid'' ("guide"), a master of the spiritual sciences and disciplines known as ''tasawuf'' or [[Sufism]]. Sufi guides are commonly styled ''Shaikh'' in both speaking and writing; in North Africa they are sometimes called ''[[marabout]]s''. They are traditionally appointed by their predecessors, in an unbroken teaching lineage reaching back to [[Muhammad]]. (The lineal succession of guides bears a superficial similarity to Christian ordination and apostolic succession, or to Buddhist dharma transmission; but a Sufi guide is regarded primarily as a specialized teacher and Islam denies the existence of an earthly hierarchy among believers.)

Muslims who wish to learn Sufism dedicate themselves to a ''murshid'''s guidance by taking an oath called a ''[[Bay'ah|bai'ah]]''. The aspirant is then known as a ''murid'' ("disciple" or "follower"). A ''murid'' who takes on special disciplines under the guide's instruction, ranging from an intensive spiritual retreat to voluntary poverty and homelessness, is sometimes known as a [[dervish]].

During the [[Islamic Golden Age]], it was common for scholars to attain recognized mastery of both the "exterior sciences" ''(`ulum az-zahir)'' of the madrasahs as well as the "interior sciences" ''(`ulum al-batin)'' of Sufism. [[Al-Ghazali]] and [[Rumi]] are two notable examples.

===Ahmadiyya===
The highest office an Ahmadi can hold is that of [[Khalifatul Masih|''Khalifatu l-Masih'']]. Such a person may appoint amirs who manage regional areas.<ref>The Muslim Resurgence in Ghana Since 1950: Nathan Samwini - 2003 p151</ref> The consultative body for Ahmadiyya is called the ''Majlis-i-Shura'', which ranks second in importance to the ''Khalifatu l-Masih''.<ref>''Islam and the Ahmadiyya Jamaʻat: History, Belief, Practice'', p.93, Simon Ross Valentine, 2008.</ref> However, the Ahmadiyya community is declared as [[Persecution of Ahmadis|non-Muslims]] by many mainstream Muslims and they reject the messianic claims of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.

==Judaism==
[[File:Reb Moshe Feinstein.jpg|thumb|upright=0.7|Rabbi [[Moshe Feinstein]], a leading Rabbinical authority for Orthodox Jewry]]

[[Rabbinic Judaism]] does not have clergy as such, although according to the [[Torah]] there is a tribe of priests known as the [[Kohen|Kohanim]] who were leaders of the religion up to the [[Siege of Jerusalem (70 CE)|destruction of the Temple of Jerusalem]] in 70 AD when most [[Sadducee]]s were wiped out; each member of the tribe, a Kohen had priestly duties, many of which centered around the sacrificial duties, atonement and blessings of the Israelite nation. Today, Jewish Kohanim know their status by family tradition, and still offer the priestly blessing during certain services in the synagogue and perform the ''[[Pidyon haben]]'' (redemption of the first-born son) ceremony.

Since the time of the destruction of the Temple of Jerusalem, the religious leaders of Judaism have often been [[rabbi]]s, who are technically scholars in Jewish law empowered to act as judges in a [[Beth din|rabbinical court]]. All types of Judaism except Orthodox Judaism allow women as well as men to be ordained as rabbis and [[Hazzan|cantors]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.forward.com/articles/106320/ |title=Orthodox Women To Be Trained As Clergy, If Not Yet as Rabbis |website=Forward.com |date=21 May 2009 |access-date=3 September 2013 |archive-date=6 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206073454/http://www.forward.com/articles/106320/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web| website= myjewishlearning.com| url= http://www.myjewishlearning.com/practices/Ritual/Prayer/Synagogue_and_Religious_Leaders/What_is_a_Cantor.shtml| title= The Cantor| publisher= My Jewish Learning| access-date= 3 September 2013| archive-date= 27 September 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100927082053/http://www.myjewishlearning.com/practices/Ritual/Prayer/Synagogue_and_Religious_Leaders/What_is_a_Cantor.shtml}}</ref> The leadership of a Jewish congregation is, in fact, in the hands of the laity: the president of a synagogue is its actual leader and any adult male Jew (or adult Jew in non-traditional congregations) can lead prayer services. The rabbi is not an occupation found in the Torah; the first time this word is mentioned is in the [[Mishnah]]. The modern form of the rabbi developed in the [[Talmud]]ic era. Rabbis are given authority to make interpretations of [[Halakha|Jewish law and custom]]. Traditionally, a man obtains one of three levels of [[Semicha]] (rabbinic ordination) after the completion of an arduous learning program in Torah, [[Tanakh]] (Hebrew Bible), Mishnah and Talmud, [[Midrash]], Jewish ethics and lore, the codes of [[halakha|Jewish law]] and [[responsa]], [[theology]] and [[philosophy]].

[[File:ReginaJonas1.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.7|[[Regina Jonas]], the world's first female rabbi, ordained in 1935, killed in the [[Holocaust]] in 1944.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia| url= http://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/jonas-regina| title= Regina Jonas| first= Elisa| last= Klapheck| encyclopedia= The Shalvi/Hyman Encyclopedia of Jewish Women| via= jwa.org| publisher= Jewish Women's Archive| access-date= August 30, 2021| archive-date= April 21, 2019| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190421135109/https://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/jonas-regina| url-status= live}}</ref>]]

Since the early medieval era an additional communal role, the ''[[Hazzan]]'' (cantor) has existed as well. Cantors have sometimes been the only functionaries of a synagogue, empowered to undertake religio-civil functions like witnessing marriages. Cantors do provide leadership of actual services, primarily because of their training and expertise in the music and prayer rituals pertaining to them, rather than because of any spiritual or "sacramental" distinction between them and the laity. Cantors as much as rabbis have been recognized by civil authorities in the United States as clergy for legal purposes, mostly for awarding education degrees and their ability to perform weddings, and certify births and deaths.

Additionally, Jewish authorities license ''[[Mohel|mohalim]]'', people specially trained by experts in Jewish law and usually also by medical professionals to perform the ritual of circumcision.<ref name="jweekly1">{{cite news |url= http://www.jweekly.com/article/full/28632/making-the-cut/ |title= Making the cut |work= j., the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California |via= jweekly.com |date= 3 March 2006 |access-date= 3 September 2013 |archive-date= 25 October 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121025140316/http://www.jweekly.com/article/full/28632/making-the-cut/ |url-status= live }}</ref> Traditional Orthodox Judaism does not generally license women as mohelot, unless a Jewish male expert is absent, but other movements of Judaism do. They are appropriately called ''mohelot'' (pl. of ''mohelet,'' f. of mohel).<ref name="jweekly1" /> As the ''j., the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California'', states, "...there is no halachic prescription against female mohels, [but] none exist in the Orthodox world, where the preference is that the task be undertaken by a Jewish man".<ref name="jweekly1"/> In many places, mohalim are also licensed by civil authorities, as circumcision is technically a surgical procedure. Kohanim, who must avoid contact with dead human body parts (such as the removed foreskin) for ritual purity, cannot act as mohalim,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Citron |first=Aryeh |title=The Kohen's Purity |url=https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/885633/jewish/The-Kohens-Purity.htm }}</ref> but some mohalim are also either rabbis or cantors.

Another licensed cleric in Judaism is the ''[[shochet]]'', who are trained and licensed by religious authorities for [[kosher]] slaughter according to ritual law. A Kohen may be a shochet. Most shochetim are ordained rabbis.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Grandin|first=Temple|year=1980|title=Problems With Kosher Slaughter|url=http://animalstudiesrepository.org/acwp_faafp/21/|journal=International Journal for the Study of Animal Problems|volume=1|issue=6|pages=375–390|via=The Humane Society of the United States|access-date=2017-01-17|archive-date=2017-01-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118051502/http://animalstudiesrepository.org/acwp_faafp/21/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Then there is the ''[[Mashgiach|mashgiach/mashgicha]]''. ''Mashgichim'' are observant Jews who supervise the ''[[kashrut]]'' status of a kosher establishment. The ''mashgichim'' must know the Torah laws of ''kashrut'', and how they apply in the environment they are supervising. This can vary. In many instances, the ''mashgiach''/''mashgicha'' is a rabbi. This helps, since rabbinical students learn the laws of kosher as part of their syllabus. However, not all ''mashgichim'' are rabbis, and not all rabbis are qualified to be ''mashgichim''.

===Orthodox Judaism===
In contemporary Orthodox Judaism, women are usually forbidden from becoming rabbis or cantors.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schachter |first=Hershel |date=2011 |title=Women Rabbis? |url=https://hakirah.org/Vol%2011%20Schachter.pdf |website=[[Hakirah (journal)|Hakirah]]}}</ref> Most Orthodox rabbinical seminaries or yeshivas also require dedication of many years to education, but few require a formal degree from a civil education institution that often define Christian clergy. Training is often focused on Jewish law, and some Orthodox Yeshivas forbid secular education.

In [[Hasidic Judaism]], generally understood as a branch of Orthodox Judaism, there are dynastic spiritual leaders known as ''[[Rebbe]]s'', often translated in English as "Grand Rabbi". The office of Rebbe is generally a hereditary one, but may also be passed from Rebbe to student or by recognition of a congregation conferring a sort of coronation to their new Rebbe. Although one does not need to be an ordained Rabbi to be a Rebbe, most Rebbes today are ordained Rabbis. Since one does not need to be an ordained rabbi to be a Rebbe, at some points in history there were female Rebbes as well, particularly the [[Maiden of Ludmir]].

===Conservative Judaism===
In [[Conservative Judaism]], both men and women are ordained as rabbis and cantors. Conservative Judaism differs with Orthodoxy in that it sees Jewish Law as binding but also as subject to many interpretations, including more liberal interpretations. Academic requirements for becoming a rabbi are rigorous. First earn a bachelor's degree before entering rabbinical school. Studies are mandated in pastoral care and psychology, the historical development of Judaism and most importantly the academic study of Bible, Talmud and [[rabbinic literature]], philosophy and theology, liturgy, Jewish history, and Hebrew literature of all periods.

===Reconstructionist and Reform Judaism===
[[Reconstructionist Judaism]] and [[Reform Judaism]] do not maintain the traditional requirements for study as rooted in Jewish Law and traditionalist text. Both men and women may be rabbis or cantors. The rabbinical seminaries of these movements hold that one must first earn a bachelor's degree before entering the rabbinate. In addition studies are mandated in pastoral care and psychology, the historical development of Judaism; and academic biblical criticism. Emphasis is placed not on Jewish law, but rather on sociology, modern Jewish philosophy, theology and pastoral care.

==Sikhism==
[[Sikhs|Sikh]] clergy consists of five ''[[Jathedar]]s'', one each from five ''[[Takht (Sikhism)|takhts]]'' or sacred seats. The ''Jathedars'' are appointed by the [[Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee]] (SGPC), an elected body of the Sikhs sometimes called the "Parliament of Sikhs". The highest seat of the Sikh religion is called ''[[Akal Takht]]'' and the ''Jathedar'' of ''Akal Takht'' makes all the important decisions after consultations with the ''Jathedars'' of the other four ''takhts'' and the SGPC.

==Zoroastrianism==
{{Main|Mobad|Magi}}

[[Mobad]] and [[Magi]] are the clergy of [[Zoroastrianism]]. [[Kartir]] was one of the powerful and influential of them.

==Traditional religions==
{{See also|Imperial cult}}
{{More citations needed|date=August 2025}}

Historically [[Ethnic religion|traditional]] (or ''[[pagan]]'') religions typically combine religious authority and political power. What this means is that the [[sacred king|sacred king or queen]] is therefore seen to combine both kingship and priesthood within their person, even though he or she is often aided by an actual high priest or priestess (see, for example, the [[Maya priesthood]]). When the functions of political ruler and religious leader are combined in this way, [[Apotheosis|deification]] could be seen to be the next logical stage of their social advancement within their native environment, as is found in the case of the Egyptian [[Pharaoh]]s. The [[Vedic priesthood]] of India is an early instance of a structured body of clergy organized as a separate and hereditary caste, one that occupied the highest social rung of its nation. A modern example of this phenomenon the priestly monarchs of the [[Yoruba people|Yoruba]] holy city of [[Ile-Ife]] in [[Nigeria]], whose reigning [[List of rulers of Ife|Oni]]s have performed ritual ceremonies for centuries for the sustenance of the entire planet and its people.

==Health risks for ministry in the United States==
{{More citations needed|date=November 2022}}

In recent years, studies have suggested that American clergy in certain [[Protestantism|Protestant]], [[Evangelicalism|Evangelical]] and [[Judaism|Jewish]] traditions are more at risk than the general population of obesity, hypertension and depression.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Eagle |first1=David |last2=Holleman |first2=Anna |last3=Olvera |first3=Brianda Barrera |last4=Blackwood |first4=Elizabeth |date=July 2024 |title=Prevalence of obesity in religious clergy in the United States: A systematic review and meta-analysis |journal=Obesity Reviews |volume=25 |issue=7 |article-number=e13741 |doi=10.1111/obr.13741 |issn=1467-789X |pmid=38572610|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Eagle |first1=David |last2=Holleman |first2=Anna |last3=Olvera |first3=Brianda Barrera |last4=Blackwood |first4=Elizabeth |date=July 2024 |title=Prevalence of obesity in religious clergy in the United States: A systematic review and meta-analysis |journal=Obesity Reviews |language=en |volume=25 |issue=7 |doi=10.1111/obr.13741 |issn=1467-7881|doi-access=free }}</ref> Their life expectancies have fallen as of 2010, and their use of antidepressants has risen.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vitello |first=Paul |date=August 1, 2010 |title=Taking a Break From the Lord's Work |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/02/nyregion/02burnout.html |website=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref> Several religious bodies in the United States ([[United Methodist Church|Methodist]], [[Episcopal Church (United States)|Episcopal]], [[Baptists|Baptist]] and [[Lutheranism|Lutheran]]) have implemented measures to address the issue, through [[Workplace wellness|wellness]] campaigns, for example—but also by simply ensuring that clergy take more time off.

It is unclear whether similar symptoms affect American [[Islam|Muslim]] clerics, although an anecdotal comment by one American imam suggested that leaders of mosques may also share these problems.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/02/nyregion/02burnout.html?scp=1&sq=clergy&st=cse|title=Evidence Grows of Problem of Clergy Burnout|first=Paul|last=Vitello|newspaper=The New York Times|date=2 August 2010|access-date=24 February 2017|archive-date=9 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009191659/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/02/nyregion/02burnout.html?scp=1&sq=clergy&st=cse|url-status=live}}</ref>

One exception to the findings of these studies is the case of American [[Catholic Church|Catholic]] priests, who are required by [[canon law]] to take a spiritual retreat each year, and four weeks of vacation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=CanonLaw.Ninja - Search Results |url=https://canonlaw.ninja/?nums=276 |access-date=2024-10-17 |website=CanonLaw.Ninja |language=en}}</ref> Sociological studies at the [[University of Chicago]] have confirmed this exception; the studies also took the results of several earlier studies into consideration and included Roman Catholic priests nationwide.<ref>
See A. M. Greeley, ''Priests: A Calling in Crisis'' (University of Chicago Press, 2004).
</ref> It remains unclear whether American clergy in other religious traditions experience the same symptoms, or whether clergy outside the United States are similarly affected.{{Citation needed|date=November 2022}}

==See also==
* [[Holy orders]]
* [[Ordination]]
* [[Priestly caste]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==

===Clergy in general===
* Aston, Nigel. ''Religion and revolution in France, 1780–1804'' (CUA Press, 2000)
* Bremer, Francis J. ''Shaping New Englands: Puritan Clergymen in Seventeenth-Century England and New England'' (Twayne, 1994)
* Dutt, Sukumar. ''Buddhist monks and monasteries of India'' (London: G. Allen and Unwin, 1962)
* [[Nancy Farriss|Farriss, Nancy Marguerite]]. ''Crown and clergy in colonial Mexico, 1759–1821: The crisis of ecclesiastical privilege'' (Burns & Oates, 1968)
* Ferguson, Everett. ''The Early Church at Work and Worship: Volume 1: Ministry, Ordination, Covenant, and Canon'' (Casemate Publishers, 2014)
* Freeze, Gregory L. ''The Parish Clergy in Nineteenth-Century Russia: Crisis, Reform, Counter-Reform'' (Princeton University Press, 1983)
* Haig, Alan. ''The Victorian Clergy'' (Routledge, 1984), in England
* Holifield, E. Brooks. ''God's ambassadors: a history of the Christian clergy in America'' (Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2007), a standard scholarly history
* Lewis, Bonnie Sue. ''Creating Christian Indians: Native Clergy in the Presbyterian Church'' (University of Oklahoma Press, 2003)
* Marshall, Peter. ''The Catholic Priesthood and the English Reformation'' (Clarendon Press, 1994)
* Osborne, Kenan B. ''Priesthood: A history of ordained ministry in the Roman Catholic Church'' (Paulist Press, 1989), a standard scholarly history
* Parry, Ken, ed. ''The Blackwell Companion to Eastern Christianity'' (John Wiley & Sons, 2010)
* Sanneh, Lamin. "The origins of clericalism in West African Islam". ''The Journal of African History'' 17.01 (1976): 49–72.
* Schwarzfuchs, Simon. ''A concise history of the rabbinate'' (Blackwell, 1993), a standard scholarly history 
* Zucker, David J. ''American rabbis: Facts and fiction'' (Jason Aronson, 1998)

===Female clergy===
* Amico, Eleanor B., ed. ''Reader's Guide to Women's Studies'' ( Fitzroy Dearborn, 1998), pp 131–33; historiography
* Collier-Thomas, Bettye. ''Daughters of Thunder: Black Women Preachers and Their Sermons'' (1997).
* Flowers, Elizabeth H. ''Into the Pulpit: Southern Baptist Women and Power Since World War II'' (Univ of North Carolina Press, 2012)
* Maloney, Linda M. "[https://web.archive.org/web/20160316015427/http://newtheologyreview.com/index.php/ntr/article/viewFile/328/503 Women in Ministry in the Early Church]". ''New Theology Review'' 16.2 (2013).
* Ruether, Rosemary Radford. "Should Women Want Women Priests or Women-Church?". ''Feminist Theology'' 20.1 (2011): 63–72.
* Tucker, Ruth A. and Walter L. Liefeld. ''Daughters of the Church: Women and Ministry from New Testament Times to the Present'' (1987), historical survey of female Christian clergy

==External links==
{{Wiktionary}}
{{Wikiquote}}
* {{CathEncy|wstitle=Priesthood}}
* [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/true-to-the-faith/church-administration "Church Administration"] – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100707065132/http://www.wlsessays.net/subject/c/clergy Wlsessays.net], Scholarly articles on Christian Clergy from the Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Library
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110720110055/http://www.uwest.edu/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=259&Itemid=362 University of the West], Buddhist M.Div.
* [http://www.naropa.edu/academics/graduate/madivinity/index.cfm Naropa University] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208064255/http://www.naropa.edu/academics/graduate/madivinity/index.cfm |date=2007-02-08 }}, Buddhist M.Div.
* [https://nacministers.com/statement-of-faith/priesthood-of-all-believers/ National Association of Christian Ministers], Priesthood of All Believers: Explained and Supported in Scripture
{{Religion topics}}
{{Social class}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Clergy| ]]
[[Category:Religious terminology]]
[[Category:Religious occupations]]
[[Category:Estates (social groups)]]
[[Category:Positions of authority]]
[[Category:Religious leaders]]
[[Category:Jewish religious leaders]]
[[Category:Archbishops]]
[[Category:Priests]]
[[Category:Deacons]]