This quote presents a paradox that explores the nature of belief and self-awareness. It suggests that the act of believing in something inherently involves knowing that you hold that belief. However, once you become aware of your belief, you cease to believe in the same way. This is because the act of scrutinizing or questioning a belief can lead to doubt, which undermines the certainty that characterizes belief.

The first part of the quote, "To believe is to know you believe," implies that belief is not a passive state but an active one. It requires consciousness and acknowledgement of what you hold to be true. It’s not enough to simply believe; you must also understand that you believe.

The second part, "to know you believe is not to believe," suggests that once you become conscious of your belief, you start to question it, and the pure, unquestioning state of belief is lost. Once you reflect on a belief, you open the door to doubt, analysis, and potentially, disbelief. This is because belief often requires a certain level of unquestioning acceptance, which is in conflict with the introspection and potential skepticism that comes with knowledge.

Applied to today’s world, this quote can be seen in many areas, such as politics, religion, and social issues, where people’s beliefs are constantly being challenged and scrutinized. It suggests the importance of critical thinking and self-awareness in our beliefs. It encourages us not to accept our beliefs passively, but to actively engage with them, understand why we hold them, and be willing to question and reassess them.

In terms of personal development, this quote can be a reminder to remain open-minded and willing to question our own beliefs. It suggests that personal growth comes from questioning our assumptions and beliefs, rather than holding onto them blindly. It encourages self-awareness, introspection, and the willingness to change our beliefs when necessary.