The condition of the Church, c1500–1517 Key Terms

Clerical Hierarchy

The structured ranking of clergy within the Church, including positions such as priests, bishops, and cardinals, which played a crucial role in Church governance and influence.

Tithe

A mandatory contribution of one-tenth of an individual's income to the Church, serving as a significant source of revenue for ecclesiastical institutions.

Sacraments

Rituals recognized as of particular importance in the Catholic Church, believed to confer grace.

Good Works

Actions performed by individuals that are deemed morally good and are believed to contribute to salvation.

Indulgences

Payments made to the Church for the reduction of punishment for sins, widely criticized for their perceived commercialization of salvation.

Simony

The buying or selling of ecclesiastical privileges, often seen as a major corruption within the Church.

Reformation

A religious movement in the 16th century that sought to reform the Catholic Church and led to the establishment of Protestantism.

Clerical Corruption

The unethical practices of clergy, including the sale of indulgences and the accumulation of wealth, which contributed to calls for reform.