Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • H3547 כָּהַן (kahan): To act as a priest, minister in a priest's office.
• H3548 כֹּהֵן (kohen): Priest, one who officiates, a principal officer or chief ruler.

These Hebrew terms are foundational to understanding the concept of priesthood in the Old Testament, which is carried forward and transformed in the New Testament understanding of ἱερατεύω. The role of the priest as a mediator and servant is central to both the Hebrew and Greek biblical traditions.

Usage: The verb ἱερατεύω is used in the New Testament to describe the act of performing priestly duties or serving in a priestly capacity.

Context: The Greek verb ἱερατεύω appears in the New Testament in contexts related to priestly service. It is primarily used to describe the function and duties associated with the priesthood, particularly in the context of the Jewish temple service. The term emphasizes the role of mediating between God and the people, offering sacrifices, and performing religious rites.

In the New Testament, ἱερατεύω is found in Luke 1:8, where it describes Zechariah, a priest of the division of Abijah, who was serving in the temple. The passage highlights the continuity of the priestly service from the Old Testament into the New Testament era, underscoring the importance of the priestly role in maintaining the religious and spiritual life of the community.

The concept of priesthood in the New Testament also extends to the spiritual priesthood of all believers, as seen in 1 Peter 2:5, where believers are described as a "holy priesthood" offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. This reflects a shift from the exclusive Levitical priesthood to a broader, inclusive understanding of priestly service in the Christian community.

Theologically, ἱερατεύω underscores the importance of mediation, sacrifice, and service in the relationship between God and humanity. It points to the ultimate priestly work of Jesus Christ, who, according to the book of Hebrews, serves as the high priest of the new covenant, offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.