How did absolute monarchs typically justify their rule?

Absolute monarchs typically justified their rule through the belief in divine right, which posited that their authority to govern was granted directly by God. This notion provided a powerful religious and moral foundation for their reign, allowing monarchs to maintain control and suppress dissent by claiming that questioning their authority was tantamount to questioning divine will.

The divine right theory reinforced the idea that kings were not just political leaders but also semi-divine figures who were accountable only to God. This belief helped to legitimize their absolute power and diminish the influence of other political or social institutions, such as the nobility or the church, over their rule. This justification was critical in maintaining stability and loyalty among the populace, as subjects were taught to view the monarch's decisions as part of a divine plan.

In contrast, other options reflect systems of governance that do not align with the principles of absolute monarchy. While economic prosperity can certainly influence a ruler's popularity, it is not a fundamental justification for the concentration of power seen in absolutism. Likewise, the establishment of democratic systems and rule by the will of the people directly contradicts the concept of absolute monarchy, where power resides solely in the hands of one individual, often without input or consent from the governed.