obedience

noun4

1. •
   The quality of being obedient.

   • Obedience is essential in any army.
   • February 24, 1823, Thomas Jefferson, letter to Mr. Edward Everett Resistance to tyrants is obedience to God.
2. •
   The collective body of persons subject to any particular authority.
3. •
   A written instruction from the superior of an order to those under him.
4. •
   Any official position under an abbot's jurisdiction.