Fascinating piece here in the L.A. Times on Thomas Jefferson. Apparently, he once literally cut up the New Testament to remove the miraculous stories he didn't like (such as the angel appearing to Mary, the loaves and fishes, the resurrection of Jesus, no less). And then he took what was left and looked at it as a work of philosophy rather than religious dogma. Really interesting stuff.
Thomas Jefferson is an increasingly interesting figure to me. Yes, he was a bit of a hypocrite in many ways, but I'm of the opinion that hypocrisy is the default human condition, and that the only difference is that some of us are more aware of it.
Anyway, this is a man who once said, "Question, with boldness, even the existence of a god; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear." And (paraphrasing), "Anyone who touts his belief in Jesus above the teachings of Jesus is a false Christian." I can't help but think of money-grubbing Evangelicals whenever I hear that last one.
Could you possibly imaging such a figure being elected today? Not a prayer (sorry).
HT: Pharyngula
13 years ago
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