The quote suggests that various religions err by seeking external explanations for the complexities of the world, rather than examining the world itself. This perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding the intrinsic nature of the world, advocating for a deeper reflection on our surroundings to uncover their inherent meanings.

In the context of Rebecca Goldstein's book, "Betraying Spinoza," this idea aligns with Spinoza's philosophy that the universe should be seen as self-explanatory. By focusing on the world's own characteristics and underlying principles, we may arrive at clearer insights about existence and reality, rather than relying solely on religious doctrines.