secular power
[ˈsɛkjələr ˈpaʊər]
nounpl: secular powers
poder secular
1. Political, military, or governmental authority that is independent of religious institutions and control
The separation of secular power from religious authority is a cornerstone of modern democracy.
A separação do poder secular da autoridade religiosa é uma pedra angular da democracia moderna.
2. The temporal jurisdiction and dominion exercised by civil rulers rather than ecclesiastical authorities
During the Middle Ages, there was constant tension between secular power and the Church.
Durante a Idade Média, havia constante tensão entre o poder secular e a Igreja.
3. Worldly or non-religious governmental influence and control over society
The monarch wielded considerable secular power over the kingdom's finances and laws.
O monarca exercia considerável poder secular sobre as finanças e leis do reino.
In Brazil and Portugal, the concept of 'poder secular' is fundamental to discussions of state governance and the historical relationship between the Catholic Church and civil government. The phrase is frequently used in academic, legal, and historical contexts to discuss the independence of governmental institutions from religious influence. It reflects Enlightenment principles that became increasingly important during the 19th and 20th centuries in Lusophone countries.
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