priestcraft

[ preest-kraft, -krahft ]

/ ˈpristˌkræft, -ˌkrɑft /

the training, knowledge, and abilities necessary to a priest.

Origin of priestcraft

First recorded in 1475–85; priest + craft

I like its noble aims, its scorn and hate of priestcraft and Slavery.

Julia Ward Howe |Laura E. Richards
It is thus that priestcraft masquerades in the name of religion to enslave the human soul.

The New Avatar and The Destiny of the Soul |Jirah D. Buck
Fear of death is, in brief, part of the jargon of priestcraft.

A Grammar of Freethought |Chapman Cohen
Oppression and priestcraft are the transitory forms in which the flock has sought to cement its union.

Shelley, Godwin and Their Circle |H. N. Brailsford

Not much ahead of ancient Egyptians in spirituality or in priestcraft!

Beauchamp's Career, Complete |George Meredith

priestcraft

/ (ˈpriːstˌkrɑːft) /

the art and skills involved in the work of a priest

derogatory the influence of priests upon politics or the use by them of secular power