\Vo*ca"tion\, n. [L. vocatio a bidding, invitation, fr.
vocare to call, fr. vox, vocis, voice: cf. F. vocation. See
{Vocal}.]
1. A call; a summons; a citation; especially, a designation
   or appointment to a particular state, business, or
   profession.
         What can be urged for them who not having the
         vocation of poverty to scribble, out of mere
         wantonness make themselves ridiculous? --Dryden.
2. Destined or appropriate employment; calling; occupation;
   trade; business; profession.
         He would think his service greatly rewarded, if he
         might obtain by that means to live in the sight of
         his prince, and yet practice his own chosen
         vocation.                             --Sir. P.
                                               Sidney.
3. (Theol.) A calling by the will of God. Specifically:
   (a) The bestowment of God's distinguishing grace upon a
       person or nation, by which that person or nation is
       put in the way of salvation; as, the vocation of the
       Jews under the old dispensation, and of the Gentiles
       under the gospel. ``The golden chain of vocation,
       election, and justification.'' --Jer. Taylor.
   (b) A call to special religious work, as to the ministry.
             Every member of the same [the Church], in his
             vocation and ministry.            --Bk. of Com.
                                               Prayer.