Emperor Tenmu

Emperor Tenmu, born Prince Ōama around six hundred thirty, was the fortieth emperor of Japan, ruling from six hundred seventy-three to six hundred eighty-six during the Asuka period. His lineage traces back to Emperor Jomei and Princess Takara. The chronicles Nihon Shoki and Kojiki, along with the poetry collection Man'yōshū, document his life and reign.

Little is known about Ōama's early years. During the reign of his elder brother, Emperor Tenji, he was seen as a potential successor but was gradually overshadowed by Tenji's son, Prince Ōtomo. In a twist of fate, Tenji offered Ōama the throne during a period of illness in six hundred seventy-one. However, fearing a conspiracy, Ōama declined and chose to live as a monk at Yoshino Palace. Following Tenji's death, Ōama learned of a plot against him by Ōtomo and fled, igniting the Jinshin War.

With the support of loyal retainers and the governor of Ise Province, Ōama successfully blocked the mountain passes to the northern and eastern provinces, raising an army against his nephew. The conflict culminated in Ōtomo's defeat and subsequent suicide, allowing Ōama to ascend the throne as Emperor Tenmu.

As emperor, Tenmu implemented significant political reforms, drawing inspiration from the centralized state of Tang China. He is recognized as the first Japanese ruler to adopt the title of tennō, or 'emperor,' and to be regarded as a divine being during his lifetime. His reign saw the redistribution of political titles among his family and supporters, as well as the establishment of four new ranks within the kabane noble title system. In six hundred eighty-three, he selected a site for a new capital, which would later become Fujiwara-kyō.

Tenmu was a fervent supporter of Buddhism and the goddess Amaterasu, initiating reforms in Buddhist governance and elevating the Ise Shrine to a position of prominence in Japan. However, his health began to decline in six hundred eighty-five, prompting the imperial court to sponsor large-scale Buddhist rituals in hopes of divine favor. Tenmu passed away in six hundred eighty-six, leading to an extended mourning period and interregnum, during which both of his crown princes met tragic fates.