信しんは荘そう厳ごんより起おこる

expression, godan verb (-ru)

function follows form; the outside shapes the inside

Proverb meaning that outward appearance or form influences inner substance; literally 'belief arises from solemnity' (i.e., seeing an ornate temple inspires faith).

• 「信しんは荘そう厳ごんより起おこる」というように、立りっ派ぱな建たて物ものを見みると自し然ぜんと信しん仰こう心しんが湧わいてくる。

  As the saying goes, 'function follows form' — seeing a magnificent building naturally inspires religious feeling.