religious state; theocracy
Refers to a country where religion and government are closely intertwined, or where religious law is the basis of governance. Often used in political or historical contexts.
Iran is an Islamic religious state.
Many religious states existed in medieval Europe.
神権政治 specifically emphasizes rule by divine authority or clergy, while 宗教国家 is a broader term for a state based on religious principles.
政教分離 is the principle of separation of religion and state, the opposite concept of a 宗教国家.
Compound of 宗教 (religion) and 国家 (state, nation).