Theocracy
Also called: Theocratic state · Topic: Secularism: Western and Indian Models · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 9 "From the Rulers to the Ruled: Types of Governments"; Class 11, Ch 8 "Secularism"
Meaning
A theocracy is a state run directly by priests or religious leaders. Religion and government are joined together, with no separation between them. NCERT (Class 11, Secularism) says theocracies bring hierarchy, oppression and limits on other faiths. That is why a secular state must first of all not be a theocracy.
Example
The medieval Papal States and the Taliban in Afghanistan, back in power since August 2021, are theocracies. Iran and Vatican City are other examples. India is the opposite: it has no official religion, and religious leaders do not run the government.
Don't confuse with
- Established religion: the state has an official religion but is not run by priests, as with the Anglican Church in England.
- Religious fundamentalism: a rigid way of practising religion. It need not mean that priests hold state power.