Answer
The Byzantine Emperor John VI Kantakouzenos staunchly supported Gregory Palamas, a renowned theologian and monk, during the religious controversies of the 14th century known as the Hesychast disputes. These disputes centered around the practice of hesychasm, a contemplative prayer technique pursued by Palamas and his followers. Kantakouzenos firmly backed Palamas' theological positions, recognizing their significance in preserving the Orthodox faith, even in the face of opposition from certain ecclesiastical figures.