Translation guide
The state, office, or collective body of priests. In Japanese, this concept is expressed differently depending on whether you mean the clerical office, the collective group of priests, or the religious system. There is no single direct equivalent.
Referring to the role, status, or condition of serving as a priest.
Specifically the office or position of a priest, especially in Christian contexts. Can also be used for other religions.
He entered the priesthood.
The office of a Buddhist priest or monk. Used in Buddhist contexts.
He retired from the priesthood.
The office of a Shinto priest. Refers to the position or occupation.
Qualifications are required to enter the priesthood (Shinto).
A more literal, explanatory phrase meaning 'the state of being a priest'. Less natural but clear.
The priesthood comes with great responsibility.
Referring to priests as a group or class.
Clergy or clergymen; can refer to the collective body of priests in a general sense, often Christian.
The priesthood opposed the reform.
Buddhist priests or monks collectively. Can be used to refer to the priesthood as a group.
Shinto priests collectively. Often used in historical or formal contexts.
A specific group or body of priests, like a college of priests. More organizational.
The priesthood elected a new bishop.
Referring to the religious institution or hierarchical system of priests.
Japanese does not have a single word that covers all meanings of 'priesthood'. You must choose the term based on religion (Christian, Buddhist, Shinto) and whether you mean the office, the group, or the system.
When translating 'priesthood', first determine the religious context. For Christianity, use 司祭 (shisai) for priest and related terms. For Buddhism, use 僧 (sō) or 僧侶 (sōryo). For Shinto, use 神主 (kannushi) or 神職 (shinshoku).
The priesthood chants sutras every morning.
神官たちは神社に仕えている。
The priesthood serves at the shrine.
The priesthood in medieval Europe was powerful.