The Parallels Between Fundamentalist Christian Support for Trump and the Divine Right of Kings in Medieval Europe

This page was posted in mid 2024, along with other content meant to warn people about supporting Trump. Trump supporters have foolishly created a very difficult situation that has global implications. Trump supporters are dangerously incapable of thinking critically.

That statement above had a significant impact on traffic to this page, because traffic crashed. Apparently, many visitors were fundamentalist Christians, thinking this page somehow validated their notion about Trump having a divine connection. That is an excellent example of just how stupid this segment of the population is. It is absolutely amazing, sad, and dangerous.

The phenomenon of fundamentalist Christian support for Donald Trump has been a significant and polarizing aspect of American politics in recent years. While the reasons behind this support are complex and multifaceted, it is intriguing to explore parallels between this modern-day political allegiance and the medieval concept of the divine right of kings in Europe. This essay will delve into the similarities in logic, ideology, and motivations that underpin these two seemingly disparate phenomena.

I. Divine Right of Kings: Historical Context

To better understand the comparison between fundamentalist Christian support for Trump and the divine right of kings, it is essential to first examine the historical context of the latter. The divine right of kings was a concept that gained prominence in Europe during the medieval era, reaching its zenith in the 16th and 17th centuries. It posited that monarchs were divinely appointed, with their authority deriving directly from God. This belief granted kings an almost sacred status, making them accountable only to God and not to their subjects.

II. Theological Justifications

Fundamentalist Christians who support Trump often cite their theological convictions as a basis for their allegiance. In a similar vein, proponents of the divine right of kings argued that monarchs were chosen by God and, therefore, were to be obeyed unquestioningly. This theological justification formed the bedrock of both beliefs.

Fundamentalist Christians often view Trump as a champion of conservative values, particularly on issues such as abortion, religious freedom, and conservative judges. They see his presidency as a divine intervention, akin to a modern-day King David, chosen by God to lead the nation. This perspective aligns with the medieval notion of kings as God's representatives on Earth, selected to fulfill divine purposes.

III. Opposition to Secular Authority

Another striking parallel between these two phenomena is the resistance to secular authority. Supporters of Trump, including many fundamentalist Christians, often view the mainstream media, academia, and the political establishment with suspicion, perceiving them as hostile to their values. Similarly, proponents of the divine right of kings argued that any opposition to the monarch was tantamount to opposing God's will, and such dissent was often met with harsh repression.

In both cases, there is a deep distrust of secular institutions that are seen as antagonistic to the religious and moral values upheld by fundamentalist Christians and monarchists, respectively. This distrust fosters a sense of defiance against perceived enemies of their beliefs and a commitment to defending their chosen leader.

IV. The Role of Charisma and Populism

Donald Trump's charismatic and populist appeal has been a central factor in his support among fundamentalist Christians. His unfiltered rhetoric, outsider status, and promise to "make America great again" resonated with a significant portion of the population. In a similar vein, many medieval European monarchs were charismatic figures who cultivated their image as divinely appointed leaders.

Medieval monarchs often presented themselves as protectors of the faith and saviors of their kingdoms, emphasizing their divine mandate to rally support among their subjects. Trump's appeal to fundamentalist Christians mirrors this, as he positioned himself as a defender of Christian values and religious freedom against perceived threats from secular forces.

V. Appeals to Nationalism and Exceptionalism

Both the divine right of kings and the support for Trump have been associated with appeals to nationalism and exceptionalism. Monarchs in medieval Europe frequently portrayed themselves as the embodiment of their nation's destiny, divinely ordained to lead their people to greatness. Likewise, Trump's slogan, "Make America Great Again," tapped into a sense of American exceptionalism and a desire to reclaim a perceived lost national glory.

Fundamentalist Christians who support Trump often believe that he can restore America to a more morally upright and religiously grounded state. This vision aligns with the idea that leaders are chosen by God to guide their nations towards greatness, echoing the medieval belief in the divine destiny of kings.

VI. Resistance to Change

The resistance to change is a common thread running through both fundamentalist Christian support for Trump and the divine right of kings. Monarchs of the medieval era resisted reforms that would reduce their power or curtail their divine authority. Similarly, many fundamentalist Christians who support Trump often oppose progressive social and cultural changes that challenge their traditional values.

For these individuals, Trump represents a bulwark against the perceived encroachment of secularism, liberalism, and moral relativism. They see him as a figure who can protect their way of life from the winds of change, much as monarchs clung to their divine authority amid emerging challenges to their rule.

Conclusion

While it may seem surprising at first glance, there are indeed striking parallels between fundamentalist Christian support for Donald Trump and the medieval concept of the divine right of kings in Europe. Both phenomena draw on theological justifications, resist secular authority, rely on charismatic leadership, appeal to nationalism and exceptionalism, and resist change. By examining these similarities, we gain a deeper understanding of the motivations and beliefs that underpin these complex political and religious alliances. Whether in medieval Europe or contemporary America, the fusion of religious conviction, charismatic leadership, and a belief in divine mandate has continued to shape the course of history and politics.

Caring for the body as part of a spiritual practice

Attention to health, food, and fasting can be approached with the same seriousness as any contemplative discipline.

For readers interested in this perspective, Longevity Secrets explores these ideas in practical, evidence-minded terms.

→ Learn more

Longevity Is Cumulative

Healthspan reflects how well decisions were understood when they mattered.

A practical, evidence-minded book on fasting, nutrition, and aging—without hype or programs.

→ Longevity Secrets