simony Definition
the act of buying or selling ecclesiastical privileges, for example pardons or benefices.
Using simony: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "simony" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The bishop was accused of simony for selling church offices.
Example
Simony was a common practice in the medieval church.
Example
The church forbids simony and considers it a grave sin.
simony Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for simony
Phrases with simony
Example
It is illegal to commit simony and can result in excommunication from the church.
a person who practices simony
Example
The bishop was accused of being a simoniac and was removed from his position.
relating to or characterized by simony
Example
The church has strict rules against simonious behavior.
Origins of simony
from Old French 'simonie', from Late Latin 'simonia', from Simon Magus, who tried to buy spiritual power from the apostles (Acts 8:18–24)
Summary: simony in Brief
'Simony' [ˈsɪməni] refers to the act of buying or selling ecclesiastical privileges, such as pardons or benefices. It was a common practice in the medieval church but is now considered a grave sin and is forbidden by the church. The term is often used in phrases like 'commit simony,' and related words include 'simoniac' and 'simonious.'
