divine right of kings


noun

the doctrine that the right of rule derives directly from God, not from the consent of the people.
Also called divine right.

Origin of divine right of kings

First recorded in 1735–45

British Dictionary definitions for divine right of kings

divine right of kings

noun

history the concept that the right to rule derives from God and that kings are answerable for their actions to God alone

Cultural definitions for divine right of kings

divine right of kings

The doctrine that kings and queens have a God-given right to rule and that rebellion against them is a sin. This belief was common through the seventeenth century and was urged by such kings as Louis xiv of France. (See absolute monarchy.)