theocracy

theocracy
—theocratic /thee'euh krat"ik/, theocratical, adj. —theocratically, adv.
/thee ok"reuh see/, n., pl. theocracies.
1. a form of government in which God or a deity is recognized as the supreme civil ruler, the God's or deity's laws being interpreted by the ecclesiastical authorities.
2. a system of government by priests claiming a divine commission.
3. a commonwealth or state under such a form or system of government.
[1615-25; < Gk theokratía. See THEO-, -CRACY]

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Government by divine guidance or by officials who are regarded as divinely guided.

In many theocracies, government leaders are members of the clergy, and the state's legal system is based on religious law. Theocratic rule was typical of early civilizations. The Enlightenment marked the end of theocracy in most Western countries. Contemporary examples of theocracies include Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Vatican. See also church and state; divine kingship.

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Universalium. 2010.

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