Meaning: The quote "Religion is the frozen thought of man out of which they build temples" by Jiddu Krishnamurti, a philosopher, invites a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between religion, human thought, and the physical structures that represent religious beliefs. Krishnamurti was a prominent philosopher and spiritual teacher who questioned traditional religious practices and beliefs, making this quote particularly significant in understanding his perspective on the nature of religion.

At its core, the quote suggests that religion is a product of human thought, and the physical manifestations of religious faith, such as temples, are constructed from this "frozen thought." In other words, Krishnamurti seems to be implying that religion is a result of human contemplation and conceptualization, which is then solidified into tangible forms like temples. This perspective challenges the notion of religion as a divine or absolute truth, emphasizing its human origins and the role of human cognition in shaping religious beliefs and practices.

The notion of "frozen thought" in the quote may allude to the idea that religious beliefs and practices can become rigid and unchanging over time. It suggests that once human thought solidifies into religious doctrines and traditions, it becomes resistant to change, much like ice that remains fixed in form. This interpretation aligns with Krishnamurti's critical approach to organized religion, as he often questioned the dogmas and rituals that he believed restricted individual spiritual growth and understanding.

The reference to "temples" in the quote symbolizes the physical structures built to honor and worship the divine in various religious traditions. In this context, temples represent the outward expressions of religious faith, serving as places of worship, community gatherings, and spiritual reflection. By linking temples to the "frozen thought of man," Krishnamurti may be highlighting the idea that these architectural marvels are not just physical edifices, but also embodiments of human conceptualization and devotion to religious ideals.

Krishnamurti's critique of religion as "frozen thought" and the construction of temples raises important questions about the nature of religious belief and its impact on human society. It prompts us to consider the ways in which religious ideas and practices can become entrenched, resistant to evolution, and sometimes divisive. Furthermore, the quote challenges us to reflect on the relationship between human cognition, religious expression, and the enduring influence of religious institutions on culture and civilization.

While Krishnamurti's perspective on religion may be seen as critical, it also invites a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances inherent in religious belief systems. His emphasis on the role of human thought in shaping religious constructs encourages individuals to engage critically with their own beliefs and question the origins and implications of religious traditions. By acknowledging the human element in religion, Krishnamurti urges us to approach spirituality with open-minded inquiry and a willingness to reexamine established norms and practices.

In conclusion, Jiddu Krishnamurti's quote "Religion is the frozen thought of man out of which they build temples" presents a thought-provoking perspective on the origins and manifestations of religion. By highlighting the role of human thought in shaping religious beliefs and the physical structures that represent them, Krishnamurti challenges us to critically examine the nature of religious faith and its impact on human society. This quote serves as a catalyst for deeper introspection and dialogue about the complexities of religion, human cognition, and the enduring legacy of religious institutions.