...it is not to be understood that I am with him [Jesus]…
![“...it is not to be understood that I am with him [Jesus] in all his doctrines. I am a Materialist, he takes the side of spiritualism; he preaches the efficacy of repentance toward forgiveness of sin. I require a counterpoise of good works to redeem it... Among the sayings & discourses imputed to…” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/06a/thomas-jefferson-43_absurdity_it-is-not-to-be-understood-that-i-am-wit_1394038.jpg)
““...it is not to be understood that I am with him [Jesus] in all his doctrines. I am a Materialist, he takes the side of spiritualism; he preaches the efficacy of repentance toward forgiveness of sin. I require a counterpoise of good works to redeem it... Among the sayings & discourses imputed to him by his biographers, I find many passages of fine imagination, correct morality, and of the most lovely benevolence: and others again of so much ignorance, so much absurdity, so much untruth, charlatanism, and imposture, as to pronounce it impossible that such contradictions should have proceeded from the same being. [ Letter to William Short, 13 April 1820 ]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Jefferson critiques Jesus' teachings, noting both moral virtues and contradictions, and argues that materialist ethics require good works to balance spiritual claims.
In simple terms: He sees moral good and falsehood in Jesus' words, demanding deeds to offset spiritual promises.
Key Takeaway
Balance belief with action.
Themes
religion
materialism
morality
contradiction
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- public discourse
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
ethical balance
skepticism
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile spiritual teachings with materialist values?
- What role should good works play in moral systems?
A Different Perspective
Religious teachings may not fully address materialist concerns.