Patriarchate

A patriarchate refers to the system of governance and authority within certain religious organizations, particularly in Christianity, where a patriarch—often a senior bishop or ecclesiastical leader—holds a significant position of power. This term is commonly associated with the Eastern Orthodox Church, where patriarchs oversee specific regions or national churches. The concept can also extend to broader social structures where male figures hold primary authority in family, community, or institutional contexts. Patriarchates embody both religious leadership and the cultural implications of male dominance in various societies throughout history.