Earlier imperial sponsorship of Buddhism, beginning with Prince Shōtoku (574–622), had led to a general politicization of the Japanese clergy, along with an increase in intrigue and corruption.

Emperor Kanmu shores up his rule by changing the syllabus of the university.

Confucian ideology still provides the raison d'être for the Imperial government.

In 784, Kanmu authorizes the teaching of a new course based on the Spring and Autumn Annals based on two newly imported commentaries: Kung-yang and Ku-liang.

These commentaries use political rhetoric to promote a state in which the Emperor, as "Son of Heaven," should extend his sphere of influence to barbarous lands, thereby gladdening the people.

In 784, Emperor Kanmu shifts his capital from Nara to …