Thomas Jefferson did not rewrite the bible, but he did compile a version of the New Testament that included only what he considered to be the authentic teachings of Jesus Christ. He removed sections that he believed to be later additions, including the miracles and supernatural elements, which he considered to be the inventions of later writers.
Jefferson believed that the true message of Jesus was one of moral and ethical teachings, rather than the divine or supernatural. He created his own version of the New Testament in order to better understand the teachings of Jesus and to demonstrate his own beliefs about the nature of religion and morality.
Religion and False Morality
Religion has been a powerful force in shaping human culture and morality for thousands of years. It provides a framework for understanding the world and our place in it, and often offers guidance on how we should live our lives. But at the same time, religious beliefs and practices can also be used to justify actions that are harmful to others, or to perpetuate systems of oppression and inequality.
One of the key ways in which religion can promote false morality is through the use of dogmatic teachings that are presented as absolute truths. These teachings may be based on sacred texts or other religious traditions, and are often seen as beyond challenge or question. However, this can result in a situation where people blindly follow moral codes that may no longer be relevant or appropriate in the modern world, or that are actively harmful to others.
For example, some religious beliefs and practices may promote discrimination against certain groups of people, such as women or members of the LGBTQ+ community. In some cases, this may be based on an interpretation of scripture or tradition that is not supported by the broader community, but is nonetheless presented as absolute truth. In other cases, discriminatory beliefs and practices may be used to justify systems of oppression, such as the caste system in India, or the segregation of African Americans in the United States.
Another way in which religion can promote false morality is through the use of moral absolutism, the belief that there are universal moral truths that apply to all people in all situations. While this may sound appealing in theory, in practice it can lead to a situation where people are unable to consider the complexities and nuances of ethical decision-making. For example, a religious person may believe that all life is sacred, and therefore refuse to support measures that would prevent the spread of a deadly disease.
In conclusion, religion has the potential to promote both true and false morality, depending on how it is understood and practiced. It is important for individuals and communities to critically examine their religious beliefs and practices, and to be open to changing or discarding those that are harmful or out of step with the values and needs of society. Ultimately, true morality must be grounded in empathy, compassion, and respect for all people, regardless of their beliefs or background.
Follow R. Bingham - Staff Writer on BLOGGERNET
Comments