Simony

Simony is a historical term denoting the practice of selling church offices, roles, or sacred items for personal profit. The term is derived from Simon Magus, a figure mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles who tried to purchase the ability to confer the Holy Spirit from the apostles Peter and John. In the course of history, the definition of simony broadened to include various forms of commercializing spiritual or religious matters. It has been broadly condemned across Christian traditions as a breach of the sanctity of religious office and divine authority.