ordained

Ordained is a term primarily used to describe the formal conferral of religious authority or office upon an individual, typically through a ceremonial rite recognized by a particular faith tradition. In Christian contexts, ordination commonly involves the laying on of hands by bishops or other clergy, signifying the recipient’s appointment to the roles of deacon, priest, or bishop. Similar practices exist in Judaism, where a rabbi may receive semikhah, and in Islam, where a person may be appointed as an imam or scholar following scholarly training. The act is often accompanied by vows, liturgical prayers, and the granting of specific sacramental powers, such as the ability to administer rites, preach, or provide pastoral care.

Etymologically, the word derives from Middle English “ordainen,” from Old French “ordonner,” and ultimately from Latin “ordinare,” meaning “to arrange” or “to set in order.” Beyond its religious sense, ordained can function as an adjective meaning predetermined or inevitable, as in the phrase “ordained by fate.” This usage traces back to theological notions of divine providence influencing human affairs.

In contemporary secular usage, “ordained” may describe any formal appointment to a position of authority, though it is less common outside religious contexts. Legal systems in some countries recognize the status of ordained clergy for purposes such as marriage solemnization or tax exemptions. The concept raises ongoing discussions regarding the separation of church and state, the criteria for qualification, and the balance between tradition and modern expectations within religious institutions.