denotes "a priesthood" (akin to hierateuo, see below), "a body of priests," consisting of all believers, the whole church (not a special order from among them), called "a holy priesthood," 1 Peter 2:5; "a royal priesthood," 1 Peter 2:9; the former term is associated with offering spiritual sacrifices, the latter with the royal dignity of showing forth the Lord's excellencies (RV). In the Sept., Exodus 19:6; 23:22 .
"a priesthood," signifies the office, quality, rank and ministry of "a priest," Hebrews 7:11,12,24 , where the contrasts between the Levitical "priesthood" and that of Christ are set forth. In the Sept., 1 Chronicles 29:22 .
"a priesthood," denotes the priest's office, Luke 1:9; Hebrews 7:5 , RV, "priest's office."
signifies "to officiate as a priest," Luke 1:8 , "he executed the priest's office."