Over time, the meaning of "mystery" broadened. It began to encompass anything that was unknown, unexplained, or difficult to understand. This could include:
* Religious beliefs: The concept of God or the divine was often considered a mystery, as it was something beyond human comprehension.
* Philosophical questions: The nature of reality, the meaning of life, and the existence of free will are all philosophical mysteries that have puzzled thinkers for centuries.
* Scientific discoveries: New discoveries in science often raise more questions than they answer, creating new mysteries that scientists strive to solve.
* Criminal investigations: The act of solving a crime often involves piecing together clues and unraveling a mystery.
Therefore, mysteries are called mysteries because they embody the essence of the unknown, the hidden, and the inexplicable. They invite us to explore, question, and ultimately seek understanding.