This quote suggests that for politicians, appearing religious or holding religious affiliations can be beneficial for their image, as it can attract support from religious constituents. However, the principles of religion, which often advocate for selflessness, honesty, and morality, can be inconvenient or challenging for politicians to genuinely follow, especially when these principles conflict with political agendas or personal ambitions.

This quote essentially highlights the potential hypocrisy within politics, where religion can be used as a tool for gaining popularity rather than a guiding principle for actions and decisions. It points to the tension between public image and personal integrity, suggesting that politicians may publicly espouse religious beliefs without truly adhering to their principles.

In today’s world, this idea is highly relevant. Many politicians around the globe publicly affiliate themselves with religions to gain support from religious communities. Yet, their actions and policies often contradict the teachings of the religions they claim to follow. This has led to public disillusionment and cynicism towards politicians, as people perceive a gap between their words and actions.

In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder to align our actions with our beliefs and values. It encourages us to be authentic and consistent, rather than adopting beliefs or affiliations for the sake of appearances or personal gain. It prompts us to question our motivations and to strive for integrity in all aspects of our lives.