What are the duties of prophets and prophetesses?

Answer 1

The duties of prophet is to preach about God "

Son of man, speak to the children of your people and tell them: when I bring the sword upon a country and that the people of that country take a man to its bosom and establish him as a sentinel, if this man sees the sword coming upon the country, he sounds the Trumpet and warns the people; if the one who hears the sound of the trumpet is not warned and the sword surprises him, his blood shall be on his head."

"If he hears the sound of the trumpet, and would not be warned, his blood will be on him, if he allows himself to be warned he will be saved."

The authentic function of a prophet is to accurately predict or diviniate on future events and also to accurately recall ancient events. The other essential function would be the consistent demonstration of an exemplary and righteous lifestyle. All authentic prophets would consistently demonstrate compassion, equity, contentment and self-sacrifice in every moment of their lives.

Answer 2

In Judaism:

The Israelite prophets were extremely learned and pious individuals, both men and women, whose superlative level of piety merited them with visions from God. They had to be humble, yet speak with authority. They had to love their people, yet not hesitate to rebuke with caustic words if commanded to by God.

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The prophets were called upon by God to guide the people and to guide the king. While the king had authority in national matters of state, and the Sanhedrin (Sages) had say in Torah-rulings and halakha (law), the prophets spoke in matters of ethics, of belief, of loyalty to God, and behavior. They rebuked the people at God's command, they predicted events which God revealed to them, they taught through Divine inspiration, and they provided optimism and hope with the prophecies of eventual Redemption.

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Some of the prophetical chapters (or books) detail Israelite history and past events, some exhort the people to improve their spiritual level, some predict events and/or warn (especially concerning the First Destruction), some serve to comfort the nation, some speak of prayer and love of God, and some speak of life, experience and wisdom.

Answer 3

To tell or warn of future events.