Quakers traditionally have been circumspect ( at best) about engaging in theology, frequently dismissing theology as "notions", However "notions" can act as reflections of human struggle to understand the essentially unknowable. "Tremendum et fascinans" translates from Latin as "fearful and fascinating". The phrase describes the numinous, a concept coined by the German theologian Rudolf Otto to explain the dual experience of the sacred as both terrifyingly awesome and irresistibly attractive. It encompasses a sense of utter mystery, awe, and dread (tremendum), combined with a captivating and enchanting pull (fascinans).
Those who believe that they believe in God, but without passion in their hearts, without anguish in mind, without uncertainty, without doubt, without an element of despair even in their consolation, believe only in the God idea, not God Himself.”
Miguel de Unamuno
Philosopher & Rector of the University of Salamanca 1930 to 1936,