makterna

Makterna is a Swedish term that refers to the powers or authorities within a given domain. The expression is used in both secular and religious contexts to describe political authorities, legal powers, or broader power relations. It functions as a neutral descriptor rather than a reference to a specific group.

Grammatically, makterna is the definite plural form of makt (power). The indefinite plural is makter, while the definite plural is makterna, as in makterna i världen (the powers in the world) or de politiska makterna (the political powers). The definite form signals that the powers in question are a particular set known to the discourse.

In theology and religious literature, makter often denotes spiritual or cosmic forces, such as andliga makter or himmelska makter, frequently in discussions of good and evil or divine governance. In philosophy and social theory, makter appears in analyses of power structures and relational dynamics within societies.

In international relations and historical writing, makterna is commonly used to refer to the major states or power blocs with considerable influence, sometimes described as the great powers or leading powers. The term carries connotations of weight and legitimacy but remains broadly descriptive rather than prescriptive.

Overall, makterna functions as a versatile, neutral label for groups of influential actors—whether political, legal, spiritual, or international—whose combined authority shapes outcomes within a given arena. See also makt, maktbegrepp, and andliga makter for related concepts.