Meaning: The quote "The increase of territory and power of empires by force of arms has been the policy of all great powers, and it has always been possible to get the approval of their state religion" reflects the historical and ongoing trend of empires seeking to expand their influence through military conquest, often with the support or endorsement of religious institutions. This quote suggests that throughout history, the pursuit of territorial expansion and the consolidation of power through military means have been common strategies employed by powerful empires, and that these actions have often been justified or sanctioned by the dominant state religion of the time.

Throughout history, numerous empires have pursued territorial expansion through conquest and military campaigns. From the Roman Empire to the British Empire, the use of force to expand territory and influence has been a recurring theme. Empires have sought to increase their power, wealth, and resources by subjugating and annexing neighboring territories through military conquest. This aggressive expansionism has often been driven by the desire for economic gain, access to valuable resources, and the projection of military and political dominance.

In many cases, the expansionist policies of empires have been intertwined with the religious beliefs and ideologies of the ruling elite. State religions have frequently been used to legitimize and justify the conquest and occupation of new territories. Religious institutions have been employed to sanctify military campaigns, portraying them as divine missions or holy wars. By aligning their military ambitions with the doctrines and teachings of the dominant religion, empires have sought to garner the support and approval of their subjects, as well as to rationalize their actions in the eyes of the international community.

The relationship between empires and religion in the context of territorial expansion can be traced back to ancient civilizations and has persisted through the centuries. The Roman Empire, for example, utilized the concept of "jus divinum" (divine law) to justify its territorial conquests as part of a divine mission to spread civilization and order. Similarly, the European colonial powers of the 15th to 20th centuries often framed their overseas expansion as a civilizing mission, bringing Christianity and Western values to "uncivilized" lands.

In addition to providing moral and spiritual justification for military expansion, state religions have also served as tools of social control and political authority. By aligning themselves with the religious institutions of the time, emperors and rulers have sought to solidify their legitimacy and authority, presenting themselves as the chosen leaders of their people, appointed by divine will. This fusion of religious and political power has been a recurring feature of imperial governance, with rulers using religious doctrines to reinforce their political agendas and maintain social order.

The quote also implies that the approval of the state religion has been instrumental in legitimizing the actions of empires, both domestically and internationally. The endorsement of religious authorities has been used to rally public support for military campaigns, portraying them as righteous endeavors sanctioned by divine will. Moreover, the alignment of empires with the dominant state religion has often been exploited as a means of projecting legitimacy and authority on the world stage, seeking to gain recognition and acceptance from other nations and empires.

In conclusion, the quote by John Orr underscores the historical and pervasive connection between territorial expansion, military power, and state religion in the context of empire-building. The pursuit of territorial and political dominance through force of arms has been a common policy of great powers throughout history, often accompanied by the endorsement and support of their respective state religions. This symbiotic relationship between empires and religion has been instrumental in shaping the course of world history, influencing the actions and motivations of powerful states as they sought to expand their influence and assert their dominance.