I beleive that religious leaders influenced ways of society far more than political leaders, or rulers. In japan it was evident that the monks told the Emperor to transition and write Buddhist factors into their constitution. Also, the ruler of Japan, at the time Buddhism was just arriving, recieved gifts and was impressed by China's economic prosperity felt that to better serve his country they shoudl transiotion themslevesi nto a more accpeting religion. it is funny, although Japan was influenced by China, religiously, Japan really looked at China for guidance and for a structure for their own, previously corrupted culture. I really think iti s a colaboration of religion and politics to gain legitemacy, it clearly vairies for each culture, and it is evident that religion is a tool of the party. The ruelr can use religion, or the religion can use the ruler.
