A pastoral staff is a symbol of authority and leadership in various religious traditions. Synonyms for this term include crozier, crosier, bishop's staff, and shepherd's staff. The crozier is a curved staff with a hook at one end traditionally used by bishops and other high-ranking clergy in the Christian Church. The crosier is similar in design but lacks a hook and is used by lower-ranking clergy. The shepherd's staff is another common synonym for the pastoral staff, representing the role of religious leaders as guides and caretakers. Regardless of the synonym used, the pastoral staff remains an important symbol of religious leadership and authority.