Simplified Bible for Americans

This work, which is concise in nature, stems from an endeavor undertaken by Thomas Jefferson to extract the true essence of religion from the gospels. Although he was not an ardent Christian, Jefferson did find wisdom in the words of Christ, and in this volume, he presented the passages that he deemed to be of utmost significance.

The edition presented here is the original 1904 Government Printing Office edition, which was distributed to members of Congress, accompanied by the original introduction penned by Cyrus Adler.

Jefferson's interest in the philosophical and moral teachings of Jesus, rather than the dogmatic aspects of Christianity, is well-documented. This compilation reflects his desire to distill the core principles and values espoused by Christ, setting aside the supernatural and mystical elements that had become intertwined with Christian doctrine over time.

The decision to publish this work was likely influenced by Jefferson's belief that the true spirit of Christ's teachings had become obscured by the institutionalization of the church and the introduction of theological complexities. By presenting a streamlined version of the gospels, he aimed to expose the fundamental tenets of morality and ethical conduct that he found to be the essence of Christ's message.

The 1904 edition, which is reproduced here, was intended to provide members of Congress with direct access to Jefferson's perspective on the teachings of Jesus. Cyrus Adler's introduction offers valuable context, shedding light on the historical and intellectual underpinnings of this endeavor.

This publication serves as a testament to Jefferson's lifelong fascination with religious philosophy and his desire to reconcile his own views with the teachings of Christianity. It represents a unique and personal exploration of the core principles that he believed to be the true foundation of Christ's teachings, stripped of the ecclesiastical trappings that had evolved over time.

The significance of this work lies in its ability to provide a glimpse into the mind of one of America's most influential Founding Fathers, as he grappled with questions of faith, morality, and the role of religion in shaping individual and societal values. By presenting this edited version of the gospels, Jefferson hoped to inspire critical reflection and encourage a deeper understanding of the fundamental tenets of religious thought.

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