On the dogmas of religion, as distinguished from moral principles, all mankind, from the beginning of the world to this day, have been quarreling, fighting, burning and torturing one another, for abstractions unintelligible to themselves and to all others, and absolutely beyond the comprehension of the human mind.

Summary

This quote by Thomas Jefferson criticizes the divisiveness and violence that arises from religious dogmas, particularly those that are not grounded in moral principles. Jefferson suggests that throughout history, people have engaged in destructive disputes, persecutions, and even wars due to abstract beliefs that they themselves and others struggle to comprehend. By highlighting the inability of the human mind to fully grasp such concepts, Jefferson questions the rationale behind these conflicts and urges a focus on principles that are more universally understandable and beneficial.

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