[Kolokotronis]

Interestingly, the wife of a priest is called "Presbytera" in Greek and has been for at least the past 1800 years. We also use the term "Protopresbyter" for an archpriest. But the word for priest in Greek is IereaV, as Mad Dawg wrote. We also use the term PapaV, Papas, but not Presbyteros.

I have to say that the ancient usage of Presbytera probably answers the question of what the NT meaning of Prebyteros was.

[jude24]

I have to say that the ancient usage of Presbytera probably answers the question of what the NT meaning of Prebyteros was.

Probably - although one cannot foreclose the possibility that the role of presbuteros evolved as Christianity evolved from an illegal religion.

[kosta50]

Interestingly, the wife of a priest is called "Presbytera" in Greek and has been for at least the past 1800 years. We also use the term "Protopresbyter" for an archpriest. But the word for priest in Greek is IereaV, as Mad Dawg wrote

Priest in Koine Greek is, I believe iereus, and it signifies anyone who performs sacrifices. A presbyter is an elder first and foremost. Thus, we know that at the end of the 1st century, the only two ranks in the nascent clergy were presbyters (elders) and deacons (font face ="symbol">diakonoV). The rank of a "priest" (who is really the elder's deputy) is recognized only later.

[kosta50]

Interestingly, the wife of a priest is called "Presbytera" in Greek and has been for at least the past 1800 years. We also use the term "Protopresbyter" for an archpriest. But the word for priest in Greek is IereaV, as Mad Dawg wrote

Priest in Koine Greek is, I believe iereus, and it signifies anyone who performs sacrifices. A presbyter is an elder first and foremost. Thus, we know that at the end of the 1st century, the only two ranks in the nascent clergy were presbyters (elders) and deacons (font face ="symbol">diakonoV). The rank of a "priest" (who is really the elder's deputy) is recognized only later.