Vedek (Star Trek)

A Vedek is a Bajoran religious leader in the fictional Star Trek universe. Vedeks function as pastors for the Bajoran people, and as leaders and administrators in the Bajoran religion. When meeting in the Vedek Assembly, they act as a legislative body for the Bajoran faith, while the Kai acts as the leader of the faith.

Vedeks are generally the higher ranking members of the clergy in the Bajoran religion. While their equivalent ranks in other faiths, such as the Roman Catholic Church on Earth, is difficult to determine, they would most likely be at the least equivalent to either a Bishop or at the most a Cardinal. During the Deep Space Nine series the candidates for Kai were Vedeks, but it has not been revealed if only they are eligible for that office or if other Bajorans would be eligible.

Bajoran Vedeks are not generally bound to practice celibacy. They can be married and have children. Vedek Bareil had a close relationship with Kira Nyers until his death.