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

Then he followed his sister with stern-set face and never a sign of emotion, stiffened by that priestly energy which throws the dignity of sacerdotalism like a veil over the agonies of the flesh.

From Abbe Mouret's Transgression by Zola, Émile

A dull acquiescence in the dictates of the Church may be crossed by an occasional gleam of rebellion against sacerdotalism, roused by some temporary stirring up of the hatred felt against the Jesuits.

From Spanish Life in Town and Country by Dawson, William Harbutt

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 Shelburne Essays, Third Series by More, Paul Elmer

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 required the unbelief of the fifteenth century to give free rein to the rising commercial energies, and the craving for material improvement, that paved the way for the overthrow of ascetic sacerdotalism."

From Folkways A Study of the Sociological Importance of Usages, Manners, Customs, Mores, and Morals by Sumner, William Graham