Definition

1. Noun:
   • A system of government in which priests or religious leaders rule in the name of a god or gods: In a theocracy, the state's legal system is based on religious law, and its leaders are typically members of the clergy.
   • A state governed in this way: A country or political unit that is governed by religious authorities who are believed to be divinely guided.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Ancient Egypt was often considered a theocracy, as the Pharaoh was seen as a god-king.
  • The country's constitution establishes it as a theocracy, with religious law forming the basis of all civil legislation.
  • The concept of a theocracy contrasts with secular forms of government.

Advanced Usage

• "Theocratic" (Adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a theocracy.
  • The nation has a theocratic system of governance.
• "Theocrat" (Noun): A person who rules in a theocracy; an advocate of theocracy.
  • The theocrat believed state policy must always align with religious doctrine.

Variants and Related Words

• Theocratic (adj): Pertaining to a theocracy.
• Theocrat (n): A ruler in or supporter of a theocracy.

Synonyms

• Hierocracy: Government by religious authorities.
• Ecclesiocracy: Government by a church or its officials.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Divine right: The doctrine that a monarch's right to rule comes directly from God, often associated with, but distinct from, theocratic rule.
• Religious state: A broader term for a state with an official religion or where religious institutions have significant political power.

Noun

1. the belief in government by divine guidance
2. a political unit governed by a deity (or by officials thought to be divinely guided)