Final answer:
Priests, who hold authority from religious institutions and scriptures, serve as traditional intermediaries in religious practices, while prophets derive authority from charismatic claims of direct divine communication and often promote substantial changes to these traditions. Prophets, like Mohammed or Moses, have historically challenged established structures, sometimes leading to tensions with priestly authorities. In contrast, priests manage religious rites and maintain continuity of tradition within their communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major distinction between priests and prophets lies in the source of their authority and their roles within religious practices. Priests are full-time religious practitioners who are keepers of religious traditions and intermediaries between God (or gods) and humans, gaining authority from scriptures and religious institutions. Conversely, prophets derive their authority from a perceived direct connection to the divine and the charisma that convinces others of their legitimacy. Prophets are often seen as trouble-makers by priests because they demand change, calling for a renewal of beliefs or radical restructuring of the status quo, sometimes in advocacy for the marginalized in society or in opposition to established religious or political systems.
Historical examples of prophets include Muhammad in Islam, Moses in Judaism and Christianity, and Joseph Smith in the Church of Latter Day Saints. Each claimed direct communication with divine entities and delivered new revelations that challenged or altered established religious practices. The Prophetic Movement in ancient Israel, for instance, denounced polytheism and the Temple-centered Yahwist establishment, instead advocating for the exclusive worship of Yahweh and a more egalitarian society.
In contrast, priests, in various religious traditions like Christianity and Hinduism, require formal education or years of ceremonial practice to fulfill their roles, with certain traditions imposing restrictions on lifestyle and eligibility. The priestly role has been more exclusive in the past, but it is evolving, with increasing inclusivity in terms of caste and gender. However, the primary function of a priest remains to manage and administer religious rites and the continuity of religious tradition.