A bishop is a high-ranking Christian religious leader who oversees several churches in a region. In chess, a bishop is a piece that moves diagonally across the board.
From Old English “bisceop,” from Latin “episcopus,” from Greek “episkopos” meaning “overseer” or “watcher.” The word originally referred to someone who watches over others spiritually.
The chess bishop moves diagonally, crossing colors and spaces like a traveling church official. Its name reminds us how closely medieval life mixed religion, politics, and even board games.
“Bishop” historically referred to a male office-holder in Christian churches, with most traditions formally excluding women from this role for centuries. Only in the late 20th and 21st centuries did some denominations begin ordaining women as bishops, often after significant controversy.
When referring to specific individuals, use their correct title regardless of gender. In general statements, avoid phrasing that implies all bishops are male unless you are describing a time or tradition where that was explicitly the rule.
["church leader","senior clergy","religious leader"]
Women who became bishops in various denominations have played key roles in expanding leadership opportunities and challenging assumptions about who can hold high ecclesiastical office.
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