Translation guide
A system of government in which religious leaders rule in the name of a deity, or a state governed this way.
The general concept of a political system where priests or religious authorities hold power.
Standard term for 'theocracy' as a form of government. Used in academic and formal contexts.
That country is governed by a theocracy.
Literally 'unity of ritual and government'. Often used historically, e.g., for ancient Japan or the Vatican.
In ancient Japan, a system of theocracy was in place.
Abbreviation of 神権政治. Less common, mainly in compounds.
We discussed the characteristics of a theocratic state.
Referring to a specific country or entity that is a theocracy.
A theocratic state. Commonly used in news and political discourse.
The Vatican is the most famous theocracy in the world.
Literally 'religious state'. Broader than theocracy; can include states with an official religion but not necessarily ruled by clergy.
Not exactly the same as theocracy; use when the religious character of the state is emphasized rather than clerical rule.
神権政治 is the modern, general term for theocracy. 祭政一致 is more historical and emphasizes the fusion of religious rites and political authority, often used for ancient Japan or the Vatican.
宗教国家 (religious state) can refer to any country with a state religion, even if not ruled by clergy. Use 神権国家 for a true theocracy.
Iran is an Islamic religious state.