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Priest
الكاهن (al-kāhin) is an Arabic noun meaning 'priest' or 'clergyman,' referring to a religious figure who performs sacred rituals and spiritual duties in religious institutions. The word is commonly used in both classical and modern Arabic to denote clergy members across various faiths, though it has historically been associated with Christian and Jewish religious contexts. It carries connotations of spiritual authority, wisdom, and religious responsibility.
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ذهب الكاهن إلى الكنيسة لإقامة القداس.
Dhahaba al-kāhin ilā al-kanīsah li-iqāmat al-qidās.
The priest went to the church to perform the mass.
استشار الشاب الكاهن بشأن مشاكله الشخصية.
Istawshara ash-shabāb al-kāhin bi-sha'n mushkilih ash-shakhsiyyah.
The young man consulted the priest about his personal problems.
الكاهن هو حامي الإيمان والعقيدة في المجتمع.
Al-kāhin huwa hāmī al-īmān wa-al-'aqīdah fī al-mujtama'.
The priest is the guardian of faith and belief in society.
ألقى الكاهن موعظة قوية في يوم الأحد.
'Alqā al-kāhin maw'izah qawiyyah fī yawm al-'ahad.
The priest delivered a powerful sermon on Sunday.
تلقى الكاهن تدريباً روحياً لسنوات عديدة.
Talaqqa al-kāhin tadrīban rūhīyan li-sanawāt 'adīdah.
The priest received spiritual training for many years.
In Arab Christian communities, the term الكاهن is a respected title for Christian priests who lead congregations and perform sacraments like baptism and communion. Historically, the word derives from ancient Semitic languages and appears in Islamic texts referring to priests of other faiths. In modern usage, while primarily associated with Christianity, the word reflects the Arab world's diverse religious heritage and the important role clergy members play in their communities.
Remember that الكاهن specifically refers to ordained religious figures with formal ecclesiastical responsibilities, typically in Christian contexts in the Arab world. Use it with respect as it denotes a position of religious authority and spiritual leadership. Note that while العالِم (scholar) can also refer to religious authorities in Islamic contexts, الكاهن is more specifically a priest with ritual duties.
The Arabic word الكاهن (al-kāhin) is a masculine noun that translates to 'priest' in English. It refers to an ordained religious figure who holds a position of spiritual authority and performs sacred rituals and duties within religious institutions, particularly in Christian communities throughout the Arab world.
The word الكاهن has ancient roots in Semitic languages and appears in historical and religious texts dating back centuries. In classical Arabic literature and Islamic texts, the term is used when referring to priests of other faiths, particularly Christian and Jewish clergy. The word carries with it a sense of spiritual dignity and religious significance that reflects the important role priests play in their communities.
In contemporary Arabic, الكاهن is the standard term for a Christian priest. It denotes not just any religious figure, but specifically someone who has undergone formal ecclesiastical training and ordination. The term encompasses their responsibilities for conducting masses, administering sacraments, providing spiritual guidance, and delivering sermons to their congregation.
While الكاهن is the primary term for priest, related words include:
In Arab Christian communities, the priest holds a respected and revered position. They are seen as guardians of faith, keepers of tradition, and spiritual guides for their congregations. The role of الكاهن extends beyond religious ceremonies to include counseling, community support, and moral guidance. This is particularly important in Middle Eastern and North African contexts where churches serve as vital community centers.
As a masculine noun, الكاهن follows standard Arabic noun patterns. When referring to a female priest (though less common in traditional contexts), the feminine form would be الكاهنة (al-kāhinah). The plural form is الكهنة (al-kahana or al-kuhanna), used when speaking about multiple priests.
Example: "The priests gathered for a meeting" = "اجتمع الكهنة لعقد اجتماع" (Ijtama'a al-kahana li-'aqd ijtima').
Several phrases incorporating الكاهن are commonly used:
When learning this word, remember that الكاهن carries formal and respectful connotations. It should be used with appropriate respect when discussing or addressing priests. Unlike some religious terms that might have broader applications, الكاهن is quite specific to ordained Christian clergy with ritual responsibilities. Don't confuse it with العالِم (scholar), which can refer to learned Islamic scholars but lacks the sacramental component of the priest's role.
Understanding the word الكاهن is important for anyone learning Arabic and interested in religious terminology or Arab Christian culture. It represents not just a title, but a role deeply embedded in Arab Christian heritage and contemporary community life. As you expand your Arabic vocabulary, recognizing and properly using such culturally significant terms will enhance your fluency and cultural awareness.