Simony

/ˈsɪmoʊni/

noun

The act of selling church offices or privileges.

The bishop was accused of simony after appointing his brother to a high church position for a bribe.

Formal

buying church offices, selling spiritual privileges, church corruption

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

Simony refers to the unethical selling of religious offices.

In historical contexts, simony was seen as a major corruption of church values.

Pro Tip 2/3

While traditionally religious, simony can be used in secular discussions to describe unethical practices in other fields.

In business, simony might describe profit-driven motives undermining ethical standards.

Pro Tip 3/3

Ensure to use simony in contexts relating to religious practices or corrupt systems.

Misusing simony in non-religious contexts might lead to confusion.

corruptionbriberynepotismextortionmalfeasance

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