This quote suggests that religion originated from human experiences of the unknown and the mysterious. The mystery referred to here is the inexplicable nature of life and the universe, the questions that science and logic cannot answer. This sense of mystery often brings with it a sense of fear – fear of the unknown, fear of what we cannot control or understand.

In ancient times, people had limited scientific knowledge and hence, many natural phenomena like thunderstorms, eclipses, or even the changing seasons were mysterious and frightening. To make sense of these phenomena and to mitigate their fear, people attributed them to the actions of gods or other supernatural entities, leading to the birth of various religions.

Even today, despite our advanced scientific understanding, there are still mysteries that we cannot explain. The fear of death and what lies beyond, the meaning and purpose of life, the nature of consciousness – these are questions that science has yet to answer fully. Many people turn to religion for answers to these questions, for comfort, and to alleviate their fear.

In terms of personal development, this quote can be seen as a call to embrace the mystery and fear in our lives. Instead of shying away from the unknown, we should confront it, explore it, and learn from it. It’s through facing the unknown that we grow as individuals. The fear that comes with the mystery is not something to be avoided, but something to be understood and integrated into our personal growth journey.

Moreover, this quote can also be applied to the idea of faith in today’s world. Faith, in many ways, is a response to mystery and fear. It’s a belief in something greater than ourselves, something that transcends our understanding. Whether that faith is in a religious sense, or faith in oneself, in others, or in the universe, it’s a powerful tool for navigating the mysteries and fears of life.

Lastly, it’s important to note that while the quote suggests that religion is born out of fear and mystery, it doesn’t necessarily imply that religion is merely a product of fear or a primitive attempt to explain the unknown. Many would argue that religion, at its best, is a profound response to the mystery of existence, offering a framework for ethical living, community, and personal growth.