The meaning of “ἱερεύς”
Understanding hiereús reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
(high) priest. - a priest (literally or figuratively)
ἱερεύς
(high) priest. - a priest (literally or figuratively)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 12:4 | “How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests?” Word: ἱερεύς (hiereús) | |
| Mark 2:26 | “How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him?” Word: ἱερεύς (hiereús) | |
| Luke 6:4 | “How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?” Word: ἱερεύς (hiereús) | |
| John 1:19 | “And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?” Word: ἱερεύς (hiereús) | |
| Acts 6:7 | “And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.” Word: ἱερεύς (hiereús) |
Theological Word Study: Priest
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Priest
The Hebrew kohen (כֹּהֵן) denotes a priest—one who mediates between God and people through sacrifices and intercession. Aaron and his descendants served as Israel's priests, foreshadowing Christ the Great High Priest.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Priest
The Greek hiereus (ἱερεύς) means priest. Christ is our eternal High Priest (Hebrews 4:14) after the order of Melchizedek, and believers form a 'royal priesthood' (1 Peter 2:9).