noun
theocracy
thee-AHK-ruh-see/θiˈɑːkrəsi/
Government by religious authorities or under religious law.
In a theocracy, religious authorities often hold the highest political offices.
Etymology
Literally 'rule of God,' theocracy originally described government recognizing God as supreme ruler, usually administered by priests. The meaning extended to religious leaders themselves wielding political and civil power.
In context
Under the Old Covenant law, given to ancient Israel under a theocracy, the punishment for adultery was death.
More examples
- The constitution establishes a theocracy based on religious law.
- The textbook compares theocracies with secular systems of government.
- The debate centers on whether a theocracy can protect religious freedom.
Forms
theocracy · theocracies
theocratic adjective — Relating to government guided by religious authority.
Similar words
- government
- Covers political rule generally, whether religious or secular.
- regime
- Names a ruling government without necessarily implying religious authority.