Thomas Jefferson expressed his reluctance to engage in writing on subjects like religion, believing that such discussions often involve complex abstractions that neither the author nor the audience can fully grasp. He felt that delving into these topics would ultimately contribute nothing meaningful and would instead align him with those perceived as irrational or mad, whom he referred to as "Bedlamites." Jefferson's caution reflects his respect for the limits of human understanding when it comes to profound and abstract concepts.
The quote emphasizes Jefferson's conviction that writing on religion is fraught with challenges, as it leads to complexities that can mislead both the writer and readers. He preferred to avoid contributing to discussions that could lead to confusion or misunderstandings, asserting that such topics are best left untouched for the sake of clarity and sanity. His perspective reveals a deep consideration for the nature of discourse and the importance of focusing on topics that can be more readily understood.