But we are not debating the definition of presbuteros but of priest. I do not understand why you cannot accept the fact that the original meaning of priest was indeed presbuteros, and only presbuteros.
Actually it is Rome that is redefining what the word means.
Actually Rome had nothing to do with the English word "priest" taking on the additional meaning of hiereus. At the time, around the 12th century, Rome was still using Latin. They had little knowledge, and no control, over the development of the English language. The fact that the proper word in English for hiereus dropped out of the language and was replaced with the word (priest) that had already been used solely for presbuteros for hundreds of years was the result of the local development of the language. Indeed, it was the English reformers who were redefining words by attempting to remove the original meaning of "priest".
Among the definitions for presbuteros from Vine's Expository Dictionary that you list is: "a term of rank or office among the Christians, those who presided over the assemblies (or churches) The NT uses the term bishop, elders, and presbyters interchangeably." This office that presided over the assembly continues to exist to the present day. In English this office became known as "priest", a term that was used exclusively for presbuteroi for hundreds of years before being applied to hiereus. That Vine's Dictionary does not include this in its definition is a sign of dishonesty.
Your citations from the KJV carries no weight. The KJV was a new Protestant translation that did not reflect actual English usage. Rather, following Tyndale's example, it was attempting to change English usage by denying the continuity of the Catholic presbyteral priesthood from the NT presbyterate. Its authority for me in this debate is no greater than that of the Douay-Rhiems would be for you.
Again, if you object to "priest" carrying two meanings you should object that hiereus is being translated by "priest." Why not start a campaign to bring back the proper English word for hiereus: "sacerd"? "Priest" originally only meant presbuteros and has had this as its definition for over a thousand years.
>> “sacerd” <<
.
Sacerd child molester?
Sacerd pagan sun god cookie breaker?
What does “sacerd” mean?
.
Only to Rome..like everything they touch it is twisted and turned into whatever they say it means.. The Holy Spirit choose greek because it is a PRECISE language. There is a clear distinction between
Transliteration
archiereus
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Pronunciation
är-khē-e-ryü's (Key)
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Part of Speech
masculine noun
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Root Word (Etymology)
From ἀρχή (G746) and ἱερεύς (G2409)
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Dictionary Aids
Vine's Expository Dictionary: View Entry TDNT Reference: 3:265,349 |
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Outline of Biblical Usage
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KJV Translation Count Total: 123x
The KJV translates Strongs G749 in the following manner: chief priest (64x), high priest (58x), chief of the priest (1x).
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Thayer's Greek Lexicon Help
And
ἱερεύς
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