patriarch

Everyday

1. The man who is the head of a family or tribe, often the oldest. tree →
2. (Bible) One of the great early fathers of the people of Israel: Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. tree →
3. (church) A bishop of the highest rank in some churches, such as the Orthodox Churches. tree →

In the lessons

In history and family stories, the patriarch is the head of the family. In Bible lessons, the patriarchs are Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, whose stories are in the book of Genesis. In church life, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople and the Patriarch of Moscow lead Orthodox churches.

Examples

• Grandpa is the patriarch of our big family. tree →
• Abraham is called the first patriarch in the Bible. tree →
• The patriarch blessed his twelve sons. tree →
• The Patriarch led the Orthodox service. tree →
• In the story, the old patriarch ruled the farm with a stern voice. tree →
• Jacob was a patriarch whose sons became the twelve tribes of Israel. tree →
• And the patriarch came, walking nimbly needing neither guide nor crutch. tree →

Note

Countable. Pronounced "PAY-tree-ark". Related: patriarchy (a society where men hold most power). Opposite in family sense: matriarch (the woman who leads a family).

In Jewish tradition

Interpretation: The patriarchs are Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Tradition says their lives were a pattern for their children, and the Amidah prayer begins by naming them. In the primary lessons: In history and family stories, the patriarch is the head of the family. In Bible lessons, the patriarchs are Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, whose stories are in the book of Genesis. In church life, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople and the Patriarch of Moscow lead Orthodox churches.

Note

Countable. Pronounced "PAY-tree-ark". Related: patriarchy (a society where men hold most power). Opposite in family sense: matriarch (the woman who leads a family).