Meaning: This quote by Thomas Howard touches on the theme of religious earnestness and its potential negative consequences. It suggests that when religious fervor is taken to an extreme, it often leads to fear, rigidity, and the imposition of scrutiny and questioning on others. The quote implies that this tendency can be observed not only in mythology and history but also in contemporary society.

Religious earnestness refers to the sincere and deeply felt commitment to one's religious beliefs and practices. It encompasses the idea of taking one's faith seriously and seeking to live in accordance with its teachings. However, Howard's assertion is that this earnestness, when not tempered with tolerance and understanding, can lead to negative outcomes.

The mention of "fright" in the quote suggests that excessive religious fervor can create an atmosphere of fear. This fear may stem from the pressure to adhere to strict religious guidelines, the fear of divine punishment, or the fear of being judged by others within the religious community. It implies that the pursuit of religious perfection or adherence to strict religious codes can become overwhelming and anxiety-inducing.

Additionally, the quote refers to the tendency of religious earnestness to lead towards "brittleness." This term suggests that an excessive focus on religious fervor can make individuals rigid, inflexible, and intolerant of differing perspectives. It implies that the zeal for religious purity can make individuals and religious communities fragile and prone to breaking under the pressure of maintaining strict adherence to their beliefs.

The mention of "inquisition" alludes to the historical context of religious persecution and the imposition of orthodoxy through questioning and interrogation. It points to the potential for religious fervor to lead towards the imposition of scrutiny and judgment on those who do not conform to a particular religious ideology. This can manifest in the form of intolerance, judgmental attitudes, and the persecution of those perceived as deviating from the established norms.

Howard's reference to mythology and history suggests that these tendencies are not limited to any specific religious tradition or time period. Throughout history, there have been numerous examples of religious fervor leading to fear, rigidity, and the imposition of scrutiny on others. The quote invites reflection on the broader implications of religious fervor and its potential impact on individuals and societies.

In contemporary society, the quote may be seen as a cautionary reminder of the potential consequences of extreme religious zeal. It calls for a balanced approach to religious earnestness that values sincerity and commitment while also embracing tolerance, empathy, and understanding of diverse beliefs and practices. It highlights the importance of fostering an environment where religious differences are respected and where fear, rigidity, and judgment are replaced with compassion and open dialogue.

In conclusion, Thomas Howard's quote encapsulates the idea that religious earnestness, when taken to an extreme, can lead to fear, rigidity, and the imposition of scrutiny on others. It serves as a reminder of the potential negative consequences of excessive religious fervor and calls for a balanced and empathetic approach to religious beliefs and practices. It prompts reflection on the impact of religious zeal in both historical and contemporary contexts, emphasizing the importance of fostering understanding and tolerance within religious communities and society as a whole.