divine mandate

USAGE SUMMARY

"divine mandate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe any action or idea that is believed to be endorsed by some higher power. For example: "The church believes that its mission is inspired by a divine mandate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

But for those who claim a divine mandate, the Geneva Conventions count for nothing.

The New York Times - Books

"ISIS put all its chips on creating a state and taking territory as proof of its divine mandate.

The New Yorker

We do not want a country like Iran, which thinks that it is ruling with a divine mandate.

The New York Times - Magazine

Fate and divine mandate are the heroine's ruination, but they also absolve her of guilt and, by precluding any real choice, redeem her from anxiety and regret.

The New York Times

Yet, in rare interviews he implied that he believed he held some sort of divine mandate, that he ruled through and by God's will.

The Guardian

Miles held, though, that divine mandate extended beyond simply the Confederate interpretation of states' rights, and that Southerners were bound by the Bible to seek more than merely "a selfish independence".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

But to the prophet, they are divine, inescapable, mandates from God. Prophets paints dramatic, embodied pictures through their actions.

Huffington Post

The voters wil decide whether he gets another term -- not a divine or satanic mandate for or against.

Huffington Post

I also have the humility to admit that no Divine Revelation has mandated my view.

Huffington Post

It was only 24 months ago, after all, that Democrats divined a very different mandate in the election that made Barack Obama president and strengthened their majorities in Congress.

The New York Times

While there is no way to know for sure, the current leadership may have one eye on Chinese history, which has long linked political power to the divine, a concept known as the mandate of heaven.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "divine mandate", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific religious or spiritual belief system from which the mandate originates to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "divine mandate" in contexts where it implies a universally accepted truth. Recognize that the concept is rooted in specific belief systems and may not resonate with all audiences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divine mandate" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves to denote a perceived right or obligation to act in a certain way, believed to be derived from a higher power or deity. This aligns with Ludwig's examples, where it's used to explain justifications for actions or beliefs.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

11%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "divine mandate" is a noun phrase used to express the belief that an action or belief is authorized by a higher power. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. The phrase finds its origins and frequent usage in News and Media, and academia. While generally neutral, its formality can shift based on context. When using "divine mandate", be mindful of potential interpretations and cultural contexts to ensure clear and appropriate communication. Related concepts include "holy mandate", "divine authority", and "heavenly mandate".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divine assignment

Focuses on the task or duty given by a higher power, rather than the authority itself.

holy mandate

Emphasizes the sacred or religious nature of the authorization.

divine duty

Highlights the obligation or responsibility that comes with the divine source.

sacred mandate

Similar to 'holy mandate', but can also apply to non-religious contexts where something is considered inviolable.

heavenly mandate

Directly links the authority to the celestial realm or a higher spiritual plane.

god-given mandate

Explicitly attributes the authority to God, emphasizing a personal connection.

divine authority

Emphasizes the power and right to command derived from a divine source.

divine command

Focuses on the specific instruction or directive given by a higher power.

divine warrant

Suggests that the action or belief is justified or authorized by a divine power.

religious imperative

Highlights the obligatory nature of the action or belief, stemming from religious doctrine.

FAQs

How can I use "divine mandate" in a sentence?

You can use "divine mandate" to describe a belief or action that is believed to be commanded or authorized by a higher power. For example, "The leader claimed a "divine mandate" to rule the nation".

What's a phrase similar to "divine mandate"?

Similar phrases include "holy mandate", "divine authority", or "heavenly mandate", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "divine mandate" in a secular context?

While "divine mandate" is rooted in religious contexts, it can be used metaphorically in secular settings to describe a strong sense of purpose or justification. However, consider your audience and the potential for misinterpretation.

What is the origin of the term "divine mandate"?

The concept of a "divine mandate" dates back to ancient civilizations where rulers claimed their authority was granted by the gods. It is prevalent in various religious and philosophical traditions.