Abbot

The head of an abbey. The title, defined in the Rule of St Benedict, is derived from abba (Aramaic for 'father'). Monks are expected to demonstrate filiatio (filial obedience) to their abbot. The equivalent female title is Abbess.
Abbots are terchnically elected by the monks or nuns of their community, usually but not always from among their own community, and the appointment is usually for life. However, abbeys are often powerful, wealthy establishments, and the monks may come under pressure to elect an abbot favourable to the local aristocracy.
Not all religious houses are abbeys. Smaller houses may be priories, headed by a prior, who acts as the abbot's deputy in an abbey.

Type

Religious, Clerical