“Laws are the sovereigns of sovereigns.”
- September 5, 1638 – September 1, 1715
- Born in France
- King of France
- Established absolute monarchy, built the Palace of Versailles, and promoted the development of French culture and art
Quote
“Laws are the sovereigns of sovereigns.”
Explanation
This quote by Louis XIV reflects his understanding of the relationship between law and sovereignty. As an absolute monarch, Louis XIV was considered the supreme authority in France, but here he acknowledges that even the king must be bound by the laws of the land. The statement emphasizes the primacy of law over individual rulers, suggesting that no one, not even a king, is above the law. This perspective is often seen as a precursor to the more constitutional forms of governance that emerged later, where rulers were seen not only as executive powers but also as servants of the law.
In historical context, Louis XIV’s reign was defined by his belief in the divine right of kings, where he saw his authority as directly sanctioned by God. However, the quote acknowledges that the law, rather than the ruler’s will, should guide the governance of the state. This could be interpreted as a recognition that even an absolute monarch must respect a system of laws that provides structure and order to society, despite the apparent contradiction in his own autocratic rule. It may also reflect his efforts to centralize power and establish a uniform system of justice throughout France.
In modern times, the quote is highly relevant to the concept of the rule of law, which dictates that all individuals, including those in power, must adhere to laws and regulations. It highlights the essential idea that legal frameworks are necessary to ensure equity and fair governance. The modern application of this quote can be seen in constitutional democracies, where even heads of state are subject to the law. For example, in the United States, no one, not even the president, is above the law, as reflected in historical moments such as Watergate or the impeachment proceedings against various political figures.
