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Theocracy: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "theocracy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teocracia

🇮🇳 ईश्वर राज्य

🇩🇪 Theokratie

🇮🇩 teokrasi

🇺🇦 теократія

🇵🇱 teokracja

🇯🇵 神権政治

🇫🇷 théocratie

🇪🇸 teocracia

🇹🇷 teokrasi

🇰🇷 신정

🇸🇦 ثيوقراطية

🇨🇿 teokracie

🇸🇰 teokracia

🇨🇳 神权政治

🇸🇮 teokracija

🇮🇸 guðræði

🇰🇿 теократия

🇬🇪 თეოკრატიაც

🇦🇿 teokratiya

🇲🇽 teocracia

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.