"Enryaku-ji soon became involved in the performance of numerous sacred rituals connected with the imperial court, and it wasn't long until it achieved recognition as the temple of pacification and protector of the state."
"The powerful temples created the warrior monks to help protect the temple's interests and combat any rivals that would hinder the social standing of the temple."
In medieval Japan, Sohei, or warrior monks, emerged as powerful political players. Founded in the 700s, major temples like Kofuku-ji, Enryaku-ji, and Mii-dera maintained armies to protect their interests. These monasteries became influential landowners, engaging in political maneuvers to expand their power. Enryaku-ji, led by Abbot Saicho, became particularly prominent, performing rituals for the imperial court and gaining wealth and autonomy from government oversight. The Tendai sect, associated with Enryaku-ji, catered to the nobility's needs, further solidifying the monks' political influence.
Read at Medievalists.net
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