the doctrine that the right of rule derives directly from God, not from the consent of the people.
Also called divine right.
Origin
1735-45
British Dictionary definitions for divine right of kings
divine right of kings
noun
1.
(history) the concept that the right to rule derives from God and that kings are answerable for their actions to God alone
divine right of kings in Culture
divine right of kings definition
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. (Seeabsolute monarchy.)