What is the difference between a high priest and a chief priest?

In the rich tapestry of biblical theology, the roles and titles associated with priesthood carry significant weight and meaning. Understanding the distinction between a high priest and a chief priest is essential for grasping the nuances of Jewish religious practices and the organizational structure of the temple in biblical times. While these terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, they denote distinct roles with specific responsibilities and historical contexts.

The term "high priest" (Hebrew: כהן גדול, Kohen Gadol) refers to the singular, highest-ranking priest in the Levitical priesthood. The high priest held a unique and exalted position within the religious hierarchy of ancient Israel. This role was established by God through Moses, as outlined in the book of Exodus. Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest, and this position was intended to be hereditary, passed down through Aaron's descendants (Exodus 28:1). The high priest had several critical functions, including overseeing all the other priests, presiding over the sacrificial system, and maintaining the sanctity of the temple. One of the most significant duties of the high priest was to enter the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) to make atonement for the sins of the people of Israel (Leviticus 16:1-34).

The high priest's garments were also distinct and richly symbolic, as described in Exodus 28. These included the ephod, a breastplate with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel, a robe with bells and pomegranates, and a turban with a gold plate inscribed with "Holy to the Lord." These garments set the high priest apart and underscored the sacred nature of his office.

In contrast, the term "chief priests" (Greek: ἀρχιερεῖς, archiereis) refers to a group of leading priests who held significant authority and influence within the temple hierarchy. The chief priests were part of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, and they played a crucial role in the administration of temple affairs, religious rituals, and legal matters. This group included the current high priest, former high priests, and other senior priests who were often heads of the twenty-four priestly divisions (1 Chronicles 24:1-19). The chief priests were responsible for various administrative and judicial functions, and they often collaborated with the high priest in making important decisions.

The New Testament provides several references to the chief priests, particularly in the context of the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. For example, in the Gospel of Matthew, we read that "the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for false evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death" (Matthew 26:59, NIV). This passage highlights the collective authority of the chief priests and their involvement in significant religious and political decisions.

While the high priest was a singular, hereditary position with specific liturgical duties, the chief priests comprised a broader group of influential religious leaders who shared administrative and judicial responsibilities. The distinction between these roles can be further illuminated by examining the historical and cultural context of the Second Temple period.

During the Second Temple period, particularly under Roman rule, the office of the high priest became increasingly politicized. The Romans often appointed and deposed high priests based on political considerations, which led to a proliferation of former high priests who retained their title and influence. This situation contributed to the prominence of the chief priests as a collective body, as they included both current and former high priests as well as other senior priests.

The historian Josephus provides valuable insights into the dynamics of the priesthood during this period. In his works, he describes the power struggles and political maneuverings that characterized the high priesthood, as well as the significant role played by the chief priests in Jewish society. For example, in "Antiquities of the Jews," Josephus recounts how the high priesthood was often subject to the whims of the ruling authorities, leading to frequent changes in officeholders and the accumulation of power among the chief priests (Antiquities 20.10.1).

The distinction between the high priest and the chief priests is also evident in the New Testament portrayal of the trial of Jesus. In the Gospels, we see the high priest Caiaphas taking a leading role in the proceedings, but he is often accompanied by other chief priests who participate in the decision-making process (Matthew 26:3-5, Mark 14:53-65, Luke 22:66-71, John 18:12-28). This collective involvement underscores the collaborative nature of the chief priests' authority and their significant influence within the temple hierarchy.

In summary, the high priest was the singular, highest-ranking priest with unique liturgical duties and a hereditary position established by God through Moses. The high priest's primary responsibilities included overseeing the sacrificial system, maintaining the sanctity of the temple, and making atonement for the sins of the people on the Day of Atonement. In contrast, the chief priests were a group of leading priests who held significant administrative and judicial authority within the temple hierarchy. This group included the current high priest, former high priests, and other senior priests, and they played a crucial role in the administration of temple affairs and legal matters.

Understanding the distinction between these roles enriches our comprehension of the religious and political dynamics of ancient Israel and provides valuable context for interpreting biblical narratives, particularly those related to the life and ministry of Jesus. The high priest and the chief priests each had distinct yet complementary roles that contributed to the functioning of the temple and the spiritual life of the Jewish people.