simony

/ˈsaɪməni/

Other forms: simonies

In some Christian churches, buying or selling something spiritual is known as simony. If a priest became a bishop by paying a bribe, that would be an act of simony.

This crime mainly shows up in the histories of the Catholic Church and the Church of England. It wasn't uncommon during the 9th and 10th centuries for people to attempt to buy religious positions in the church to gain status or influence. Simony comes from the New Testament story of Simon Magus, who offered money to two apostles in exchange for the ability to perform miracles.

Definitions of simony

1. noun

   traffic in ecclesiastical offices or preferments
   synonyms: barratry

   type of:

   traffic

   buying and selling; especially illicit trade