Bischof

Bischof is the German word for bishop, a rank in Christian ordination. The term derives from the Latin episcopus, via the Greek episkopos, and is cognate with the English word bishop.

In most Christian traditions, a bishop is an ordained clergyman responsible for oversight of a geographic area called a diocese or bishopric. Duties commonly include ordaining priests and deacons, confirming believers, teaching, and providing pastoral and administrative leadership. Bishops are typically described as successors of the apostles in churches that emphasize apostolic succession. The bishop's seat is the see, and the term episcopal refers to matters pertaining to bishops.

Role and structure vary by tradition. In the Catholic Church, bishops govern their dioceses, preside at liturgies, and may hold additional offices within the hierarchy; archbishops lead archdioceses and cardinals are often bishops who serve in the College of Cardinals. In Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and some Lutheran churches, bishops also oversee clergy and sacraments, though organizational structures and authority differ.

Beyond ecclesiastical use, Bischof is a common German surname and may appear in place names and genealogical contexts. The term is widely used in German-language media and literature to refer to bishops in a general sense within Christian contexts.