Theocracy

For thoughtful child sponsors

Theocracy is a form of government in which the governmental rulers are identical with the leaders of the dominant religion, and governmental policies are either identical with or strongly influenced by the principles of the majority religion.

Typically the government claims to rule on behalf of God or a higher power, as specified by the religion in question.

There are different forms of theocracy. One is caesaro-papism, in which power is shared between a secular ruler (an emperor) and a religious leader (a pope). Theocracy can also be exercised directly by the clergy (as in Iran) or indirectly (such as via the divine right of kings).

This form of government was advocated by reformer John Calvin.