What role did religion play in the politics of empires and kingdoms during this time?

Religion played a vital role in the politics of empires and kingdoms from the 6th to the 10th centuries. Rulers often used religion to legitimise their authority, with many claiming divine right or patronising religious institutions to gain popular support. Hinduism and Buddhism were prominent, and religious patronage led to the construction of temples and monasteries, which not only served as places of worship but also as centres of learning and culture.