What does the term "separation of church and state" mean?

The term "separation of church and state" primarily refers to the principle that the government must maintain an attitude of neutrality toward religion. This concept is rooted in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits Congress from making laws that respect an establishment of religion or prohibit the free exercise thereof. This principle aims to prevent any government endorsement or preference for a particular religion over another, ensuring that individuals can practice their faith freely and without interference from the state.

Maintaining neutrality allows for a pluralistic society where various beliefs can coexist without government favoritism, which is vital for preserving individual freedoms and promoting equality among different religious groups. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of this principle. For instance, the idea that the state must support all religions equally or that churches are entirely prohibited from receiving government funds misrepresents the nuanced relationship between government and religious entities. Furthermore, the notion that the government has the authority to regulate religious practices goes against the spirit of free exercise outlined in the First Amendment, which is protected under the right of individuals to practice their beliefs without government interference.