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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Other Word Forms

• sacerdotalist noun

Etymology

Origin of sacerdotalism

First recorded in 1840–50; sacerdotal + -ism

Example Sentences

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 Project Gutenberg

In his idea of worship he was near to the High Church, but he differed from that body in ranking sacerdotalism and dissent together as the equal foes of religion.

From Project Gutenberg

THE claim of sacerdotalism is substantially as follows: Adam was the first man and the sole progenitor of the entire human race.

From Project Gutenberg

The friendly competition of the two systems side by side helps to keep sacerdotalism modest and make independency effective.

From Project Gutenberg

Instead," said Liebknecht, "of squandering our strength in a struggle with the Church and sacerdotalism, let us go to the root of the matter.

From Project Gutenberg