Kings often claimed their power to rule the people came from divine origin. This concept is commonly known as the divine right of kings. The belief in divine right asserts that kings derive their authority directly from God and that their power is not subject to the approval or consent of their subjects. Historically, many monarchs, especially in the past, have utilized the concept of divine right as a justification for their supreme power and authority. This ideology provided rulers with a sense of legitimacy and helped maintain social and political order. However, with the rise of democratic ideas, human rights, and the separation of church and state, the concept of divine right lost its influence, giving way to more representative forms of government.