The quote from Naguib Mahfouz's "Akhenaten: Dweller in Truth" highlights the consequences of unpunished crimes in society. It suggests that when wrongdoing is not addressed, it encourages further immoral behavior among individuals. This lack of accountability can erode trust in the concept of divine justice, leading people to feel that their actions bear no consequence.

Moreover, the notion that unpunished wrongdoing paves the way for additional crimes emphasizes the cycle of sin that can develop within communities. When individuals believe they can act with impunity, it fosters an environment where unethical behavior becomes normalized, ultimately threatening the moral fabric of society.