geistliche

Geistliche is a German term with two related uses. As a noun, it designates members of the Christian clergy collectively. The singular der Geistliche refers to a male clergyman; die Geistliche can denote a female clergyman, while die Geistlichen is used for a mixed-gender group. As an adjective, geistlich means spiritual or clerical and can modify objects such as Geistliche Musik (devotional or sacred music).

In Catholic contexts, Geistliche encompasses ordained ministers such as priests, deacons, and bishops, and can also include members of religious orders who have taken holy orders. In Protestant churches, Geistliche usually refers to ordained pastors or ministers; however, specific titles such as Pfarrer or Pastor are common.

Historically, the Geistlichkeit constituted a social estate within the political framework of the Holy Roman Empire and later German states, sometimes with seats and privileges in legislative assemblies. The term remains in use in church law and administration, as well as in historical writing about ecclesiastical life.

Related terms include Klerus (clerical class), Geistlichkeit and Geistliche Stände (clerical estates); the distinction between Geistliche and Laien (laity) remains central in church organization. The term also appears in literature and music, as in geistliche Lieder (devotional songs).