Greek Priests Flashcards
What was the name for:
1. A Greek priest ?
2. A Greek priestess ?
- Hiereus
- Hiereia
Why was the Greeks names for priests significant ?
Both translate to the one who sacrifices so this would highlight their role
Conventionally which type would do what role? What is one example of this not being the case
Conventionally male priests for male gods and female priests for female goddesses
Temple of Apollo at Delphi had both
What is the differences between a modern priest and an ancient Greek priest ?
Modern
- full time position where the person undergoes religious training
Ancient greek
- temporary role with no special training required
Did a priest have to serve a specific length ?
No some could serve for one festival and others their whole lives it was very personalized
Why might someone become a priest ?
Show commitment to their city
A good citizen would hope to become a priest of their city
What would a Greek priest NOT be expected to do ?
- hold regular services
- spread the message of their cod
- act as a pastoral career for the community
What was a priest expected to do ?
- undertake and oversee the correct ritual at the correct time
- keep their temple in good condition
- Did the importance of a priest vary ?
- What is an example of a priest being very important
- yes, depending on the god the importance varied significantly
- at the Olympia the Priestess of Demeter was the only female allowed to attend the Olympic Games whilst all other where banned
What was another role used by the Greeks ?
Soothsayers called Manties
What was the role of the manteis?
To predict the outcome of future events
How would omens be read ?
Looking at the entrails of sacrificed animals
- if any blemishes or imperfections where seen it was a bad sign
What else did the Greeks do to read the future ?
Augury( watching the flight of birds)
Why was a mantis very important ?
Accompany the army and make a reading before the battle
