The word “state” when used this way refers to a group of people that feel entitled to use violence to formally dominate a given region. Unlike a simple gang, they create strict formal hierarchy and have rules that apply to those they dominate but not them. They are allowed to use violence and this is acceptable, me and you are not allowed to defend ourselves, we are to give up virtually all our “rights” to self-defense to the state. A state gaslights it’s victims into believing that it is necessary to protect them from themselves and other states, and the only way civilization can exist.

This is not to be confused with “government”, which is a management function most states perform to some degree and which does not require a state.