At a glance
Theocracy grounds governing authority in divine law or religious leadership, giving a particular religious doctrine decisive authority over public institutions.
Core principles
- Religious legitimacy; authoritative sacred law; political responsibility to a divine order; privileged status for religious authorities or institutions.
Origins & development
Theocratic arrangements have appeared in different religious civilizations. Ancient, medieval and modern examples differ in clerical organization and the relationship between religious and civil offices.
Economic outlook
A theocracy can operate with private markets, redistribution or substantial state ownership. Economic rules depend on the religion, interpretation and historical institutions involved.
Society & government
Religious authorities may hold office directly or supervise elected institutions. Freedom of belief, gender equality and dissent can be limited where civil law enforces a privileged doctrine.
Variations & related traditions
Clerical rule, religiously supervised republics and sacred monarchies are different arrangements. Religious voters or an established church alone do not necessarily make a state theocratic.
Debates & criticisms
Debates concern religious freedom, interpretation, minority citizenship and accountability. Theocratic legitimacy can conflict with equal participation when religious qualifications determine political rights.