From Theocracy to Transcendence

The Evolution of Civilizations and Divine Authority in Governance

Abstract

This paper examines the evolution of human civilizations, contrasting theocratic systems with the Islamic worldview, which emphasizes the transcendence of God and the autonomy of human beings. In ancient civilizations like Sumer, Egypt, and Assyria, rulers were often deified, demanding total submission from their subjects. Islam, introduced as a revolutionary force, challenged these systems, offering a framework based on the unity of God (Tawhid) and equality among all people. The paper traces the roots of Islamic history to the prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and highlights the Islamic rejection of polytheism and divine claims of authority by rulers. The study further critiques modern neo-Islamist ideologies that mistakenly adopt Western political concepts like sovereignty and apply them to Islamic theology. It argues that sovereignty as understood in political terms is misapplied when attributed to God, as God’s dominion is existential, not political. The paper emphasizes that Islam calls for human responsibility and the rejection of totalitarianism, advocating for a political system grounded in mutual respect, social justice, and the divine order of grace.