The quote reflects the idea that the concept of God is subjective and shaped by cultural and historical contexts, particularly in Japan. It illustrates how, following the end of World War II, the divine status of the emperor was altered by external influence, emphasizing that even deities can be modified based on societal needs and perceptions. This suggests that religious beliefs can be fluid, adaptable to the times and circumstances surrounding them.
This perspective maintains that belief in God is a mental construct—if people choose to believe, then God exists for them; if they do not, then God fades away. This highlights a postmodern view of spirituality where authority and divine existence are flexible and can shift with societal changes, illustrating the complex relationship people have with the idea of God and divinity throughout history.