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Theocracy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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theocracy

[θiːˈɒkrəsi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

government type

Theocracy is a system of government in which priests or religious leaders govern in the name of a deity. In a theocratic system, the political leaders are typically believed to be divinely guided, or to be representatives of the deity they serve. This form of governance combines both religious and political authority, often leading to a lack of separation between church and state.

Synonyms

divine rule, ecclesiocracy, religious government.

Examples of usage

  • Iran is often cited as a contemporary example of a theocracy.
  • In a theocracy, laws are often based on religious doctrines.
  • The theocracy in ancient Israel was led by prophets and judges.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Examples

  • Ancient Egypt had a theocratic system where the Pharaoh was considered a divine figure.
  • In medieval Europe, the Pope held significant power over secular rulers, exemplifying a form of theocracy.

Contemporary Instances

  • Iran is one of the most well-known modern theocracies, where religious leaders control the government.
  • Vatican City is a unique example, being a theocracy led by the Pope.

Cultural Impact

  • Theocracy can greatly influence cultural practices, laws, and societal norms based on religious teachings.
  • Literature and films often explore themes of theocracy, questioning the balance between faith and governance.

Philosophical Perspectives

  • Critics often argue that theocracies can limit personal freedoms, as laws are strictly derived from religious doctrine.
  • Supporters believe a theocracy can lead to a more moral society, guided by spiritual beliefs.

Origin of 'theocracy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'theos' meaning God and 'kratos' meaning power or rule.
  • The word first appeared in the English language during the early 17th century.

The term 'theocracy' is derived from the Greek words 'theos,' meaning 'god,' and 'kratos,' meaning 'power' or 'rule.' The concept has ancient roots, with early examples observed in civilizations such as ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, where political leaders often claimed divine status or were considered intermediaries between the gods and the people. Theocratic systems were common in various ancient cultures, and the term itself appears in historical texts to describe such governance. Over time, theocracy has been used to refer to modern political systems where religious leaders wield significant authority, exemplifying the enduring influence of religious belief in political matters.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,001, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.