The quote emphasizes the cyclical nature of human conflict, particularly within religious contexts. It suggests that religions, which are often built as structures of belief and community, can also become sources of division and strife. The phrase "another religion turned against itself" highlights how the very systems meant to unite believers can lead to discord, reflecting the darker aspects of human behavior.
Moreover, the quote points to a broader commentary on the conflict between human ideals and human nature. Arundhati Roy illustrates the fragility of human constructs, where beliefs and structures can be undermined by innate tendencies such as greed, power struggles, and societal divisions. This paradox captures the complex relationship between religious faith and the often destructive impulses of humanity.