上階 · じょうかい · priesthood

jōkai

Ranks of priests within Shinto and related ceremonies.

Definition

Jōkai refers to the priest-court ranks in Shinto, indicating a system of hierarchy applicable to religious functionaries within the imperial court and shrines. These ranks include several levels such as meikai, seikai, gonseikai, and others, each with distinct responsibilities tied to ritual and state duties. The establishment of these ranks reflects the intersection of Shinto practice and Japanese governance.

Etymology

Derived from 'jō' meaning 'upper' and 'kai' meaning 'level', the term indicates the stratified nature of priestly ranks.