A couple of the more ancient theocracies were Umayyad and early Abassid Caliphate. Egyptian Pharaonic rule was based on the concept that the rulers were part divine.
Bottom line: it helped rulers control their people so there would be peace.
This Mormon tradition is the highlight of the married-Mormon couple-with-children's season, while simultaneously being the bane of every Mormon teenager alive.
The Ward Christmas Party.
Typical features:
"Ward" or "Funeral" potatoes.
Musical numbers galore*
One of the Bishopric (one of the thee head guys for that ward) dressed like Santa and giving out mini- candy canes.
Screaming children....copious amounts of screaming children.
Usually a wet spot on Santa's lap (NOT from Mrs. Santa).