What aspect of Julian's policies significantly impacted the relationship between the church and state?

Julian's policies had a profound influence on the relationship between the church and state, particularly through his encouragement and re-establishment of pagan worship. As a Roman Emperor who is often referred to as Julian the Apostate, he aimed to revert the Roman Empire back to its traditional pagan roots and diminish the influence of Christianity, which had gained prominence during the previous reigns. By promoting pagan practices, he sought to strengthen the old religious institutions and provide them with state support, undermining the elevated status that Christianity had begun to enjoy.

This encouragement of paganism marked a major shift in the dynamics between the church and the state. Julian’s efforts included lavish funding for temples, reinstating traditional rituals, and restoring various pagan priesthoods. Such policies directly challenged the Christian church's authority and presence in the empire, creating a clear divide and antagonism between the two institutions. This period revealed the struggles both sides faced as they vied for influence over public life and governance, reshaping the historical relationship that would continue to evolve in the following centuries.