noun
religious leader; religious figure; person of religion
Refers to a person deeply involved in religion, such as a founder, leader, or prominent figure. Can also be used more broadly for any devout or professionally religious person.
彼は有名な宗教家で、多くの信者に尊敬されている。
He is a famous religious leader, respected by many followers.
その宗教家は平和のために
That religious figure travels the world for peace.
信者 means a believer or follower of a religion, whereas 宗教家 implies a more active, leading, or professional role in religion.
Compound of 宗教 (religion) and 家 (suffix for a specialist or person engaged in a field).