Who is a priest? What does it mean?

A priest is a religious leader authorized to perform sacred rituals of a religion, especially as a mediatory agent between humans and one or more deities. They also have the authority or power to administer religious rites; in particular, rites of sacrifice to, and propitiation of, a deity or deities. Their office or position is the priesthood, a term which also may apply to such persons collectively.

In many religions, being a priest or minister is a full-time position, and those who fulfill this role are often regarded as having a special, divinely conferred status, authority, or abilities. The specific roles and duties of a priest may vary according to the tradition or denomination they are involved in; however, common tasks include leading worship services, preaching, administering sacraments, counseling parishioners, performing weddings, funerals, and baptisms, and teaching.

Extra: Being a priest typically requires specific education and training, and in many religions, priests are required to undergo a period of formation and study at a seminary or a religious institution. In Christianity, for example, priests are usually ordained by a bishop and may be required to take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, depending on the denomination.

In other religions like Hinduism, the role of the priest has been traditionally passed down through families and involves conducting elaborate rituals at temples and homes. Similarly, in Judaism, a "Kohen" is a priest and their role traces back to ancient times with hereditary roles, though modern Rabbinic leadership has evolved separately.

In various indigenous cultures around the world, the priest may also be considered a shaman or a spiritual healer, and their role can deeply intertwine with the community's traditions, healing practices, and lore.

The concept of priesthood is also broadly tied to the idea of 'sacerdotalism,' which is the belief that priests are necessary to make sacrifices or intercessions on behalf of the community to God or gods. This concept has been a major element of many historical religions and continues to influence contemporary practice and belief.