This noun denotes priesthood or priestly office. All three occurrences appear in Hebrews 7 during the argument about Christ's superior priesthood according to the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 7:11 asks whether perfection could come through the Levitical priesthood. Hebrews 7:12 notes that when the priesthood is changed, the law must also change. Hebrews 7:24 declares that Jesus' priesthood is permanent because he lives forever. Classical usage includes priesthood, priestly services, and sacrifices. The New Testament use is exclusively in Hebrews' Christological argument, contrasting the temporary, inherited Levitical priesthood with Christ's eternal, superior priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.