The Establishment Clause is a limitation placed upon the United States Congress preventing it from passing legislation establishing an official religion, and by interpretation making it illegal for the government to promote theocracy or promote a specific religion with taxes.

establishment clause, clause in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution forbidding Congress from establishing a state religion. It prevents the passage of any law that gives preference to or forces belief in any one religion. It is paired with a clause that prohibits limiting the free expression of religion.

The First Amendment's Establishment Clause prohibits the government from making any law “respecting an establishment of religion.” This clause not only forbids the government from establishing an official religion, but also prohibits government actions that unduly favor one religion over another.

establishment clause noun often capitalized E&C : a clause in the U.S. Constitution forbidding Congress from establishing a state religion compare free exercise clause

Learn about the history and meaning of the Establishment Clause, which prohibits the federal government from establishing or favoring any religion. Explore the Supreme Court cases and controversies on aid to religious institutions, government-sponsored prayer, accommodation of religion, and religious symbols.