sacerdotalism

American  

[sas-er-doht-l-iz-uhm] / ˌsæs ərˈdoʊt lˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the system, spirit, or methods of the priesthood.

2. Usually Disparaging. priestcraft.

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sacerdotalism British  

/ ˌsæsəˈdəʊtəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the principles, methods, etc, of the priesthood

2. the belief that ordained priests are endowed with sacramental and sacrificial powers

3. exaggerated respect for priests

4. derogatory power over people's opinions and actions achieved by priests through sophistry or guile

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Other Word Forms

• sacerdotalist noun

Etymology

Origin of sacerdotalism

First recorded in 1840–50; sacerdotal + -ism

Example Sentences

It is very significant that the mystics, who had undermined sacerdotalism, and in many other ways prepared the Reformation, were shouldered aside when the secession from Rome had to be organised.

From Christian Mysticism by Inge, William Ralph

His treatment of Holy Communion in these Sacraments, as well as in sundry other designs, is an instance of the way in which he pushed full far his sacerdotalism.

From Overbeck by Atkinson, J. Beavington

No doubt the outcry against sacerdotalism was often perverted to disingenuous uses.

From The English Church in the Eighteenth Century by Abbey, Charles J. (Charles John)

If Gregory of Heimburg embodies the revolt of the ruling classes against Rome, Hans of Niklaushausen shows us the restless spirit of opposition to sacerdotalism which was spreading among the lower strata of society.

From A History of The Inquisition of The Middle Ages; volume II by Lea, Henry Charles

It is not the habit that makes the monk, and it is possible for sacerdotalism to be as rampant among the most rigid of dissenters as in Church itself.

From Ireland and the Home Rule Movement by McDonnell, Michael F. J.