What concept describes the belief that monarchs can rule absolutely because of divine authority?

The concept that describes the belief that monarchs can rule absolutely because of divine authority is known as the Divine Right of Kings. This political and religious doctrine asserts that a monarch is subject to no earthly authority and derives the right to rule directly from God's will. Thus, the king’s authority is justified as divinely ordained, which means that any rebellion against him is not only a political crime but also a sin against God.

This belief was particularly influential in the medieval and early modern periods, shaping the governance structures of many European countries. The Divine Right of Kings provided a solid foundation for the legitimacy of absolute monarchies and allowed rulers to claim unquestioned power over their subjects, detailing how their authority was sanctioned by heaven.

In contrast, concepts like the Social Contract focus on the idea that legitimate authority arises from an agreement among individuals to form a society, while Natural Law posits that certain rights and moral standards are inherent in human nature. Popular Sovereignty emphasizes that the power of government comes from the consent of the governed, standing in stark opposition to the notion of divine authority as the source of power.