Dictionary

priestcraft en · NOUN

Etymology

From Middle English priestcraft; equivalent to priest + -craft.

Meanings

1. (uncountable, usually) The craft of performing the duties of a priest.
   • One of the most complex of all the poems in the mythological cycle is "Inanna's Descent into the Nether World." This work does not have the air of a dairymaid's song but rather seems to be an expression of priestcraft, astrology, and an investigation into the nature of time. 1981, William Irwin Thompson, The Time Falling Bodies Take to Light: Mythology, Sexuality and the Origins of Culture, London: Rider/Hutchinson & Co., page 172:
   • There is philosophercraft as well as priestcraft, both from one source, both of one spirit. In English cities and towns, the minister of religion has been tamed: so many weapons are bared against him when he obtrudes his office in a dictatory manner, that, as a rule, there is no more quiet and modest member of society than the urban clergyman. 1863, Augustus De Morgan, A Budget of Paradoxes:
   • Holonyms: priesthood, priestship
   • Whilst caring for a congregation is fundamental, it is a long way from being the only tool in the priestcraft toolbox. 2016 May 2, Kelvin Holdsworth, “The Seven Actual Marks of Mission”, in Thurible.net, archived from the original on 30 Apr 2025:
2. (derogatory, uncountable, usually) Priestly policy directed towards worldly ends.
   • Perhaps thou wert a priest,--if so, my struggles / Are vain, for priestcraft never owns its juggles. 1891, Horace (Horatio) Smith, Address to a Mummy
   • In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, before polygamy was made a sin 1681, John Dryden, Absalom and Achitophel:
   • He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion. 1831, The Book of Mormon 2 Nephi 26:29

Forms

Deriveds

antipriestcraft

Relateds

priestliness