Definition

1. Noun:
   • A political and religious doctrine: The "divine right of kings" is the belief that a monarch's authority to govern comes directly from God, not from the consent of the people. According to this doctrine, the king is not answerable to earthly authorities like parliaments or his subjects, and opposing him is considered a sin against God's will.

Usage

• This term is used as a singular noun phrase, typically preceded by the definite article "the" (e.g., divine right of kings). It refers to a specific historical concept in political theory and theology.
• It is used to describe a principle used to justify absolute monarchy, especially in early modern Europe.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The Stuart kings of England strongly believed in the divine right of kings.
  • The divine right of kings was used to legitimize the absolute power of monarchs like Louis XIV of France.
  • Philosophers of the Enlightenment challenged the divine right of kings, advocating for government based on social contracts.

Advanced Usage

• "to rule by divine right": This is a common phrase derived from the concept, meaning to govern based on this doctrine.
  • The emperor claimed to rule by divine right, making his decrees unchallengeable.
• The concept is often discussed in contrast to ideas of popular sovereignty or constitutional monarchy.

Variants and Related Words

• Divine right (noun): A shorter, more general form that can apply to any ruler claiming God-given authority, not just kings.
  • The pharaoh's power was based on a concept of divine right.
• Theocratic rule (noun): A related but distinct concept where religious leaders govern directly in the name of God.

Synonyms

• God-given right of monarchy: A more descriptive synonym.
• Royal absolutism: Emphasizes the political power aspect rather than the theological justification.

Related Phrases

• Mandate of Heaven: A similar East Asian concept where a ruler's right to govern is granted and can be revoked by a heavenly force based on virtue and performance.

Noun

1. the doctrine that kings derive their right to rule directly from God and are not accountable to their subjects; rebellion is the worst of political crimes
   • the doctrine of the divine right of kings was enunciated by the Stuarts in Britain in the 16th century