Watch Jefferson's Secret Bible

Jefferson's Secret Bible is a fascinating historical documentary produced by the Smithsonian Channel. The show explores the complex and fascinating relationship that Thomas Jefferson had with religion, specifically his own personal and private beliefs. Narrated by Joe Szymanski, the show takes viewers on a journey through Jefferson's life, examining the numerous pieces of evidence that suggest he held non-traditional religious beliefs. Through interviews with historians and experts on both Jefferson and religion, viewers gain insight into the historical context and contemporary beliefs of the time.

One of the key points of intrigue in the show is the titular Secret Bible. George Tamerlani, an expert on Jefferson's life, has been searching for this elusive book for over a decade. He believes that Jefferson's Secret Bible is a personal copy of the New Testament that Jefferson edited himself, removing all references to the supernatural and focusing instead on the ethical and moral teachings of Jesus.

Throughout the show, viewers follow Tamerlani's quest to find the Secret Bible, learning about the historical context of the time and the political and social issues that Jefferson grappled with in his lifetime.

Along the way, the show presents numerous examples of Jefferson's complex relationship with religion. One of the most striking is Jefferson's famous letter to the Danbury Baptists, in which he used the phrase "wall of separation between church and state." This phrase has become the cornerstone of American religious freedom, but the show explores the controversy surrounding its original intent and the various interpretations it has had over the years.

The show also provides insight into the religious practices of Jefferson's time, such as the popularity of deism, which held that God created the universe but did not actively intervene in human affairs. The documentary explores how these beliefs shaped Jefferson's own views and how they influenced his political and social relationships.

Jefferson's Secret Bible also highlights the contradictions of Jefferson's religious views. While he was a strong believer in individual freedoms and religious tolerance, he was also a slave owner who owned and mistreated dozens of people throughout his life. The show doesn't shy away from these uncomfortable truths, and instead presents them as part of the complex tapestry of Jefferson's beliefs and actions.

Throughout the documentary, viewers are treated to incredible historical artifacts and locations, from Jefferson's Monticello estate to the Library of Congress. Interviews with historians and scholars provide further insight into the complexities of Jefferson's life and beliefs, making the show both informative and engaging.

In the end, the show's exploration of Jefferson's Secret Bible is both informative and thought-provoking. It raises important questions about religion, politics, and the role of individuals in shaping the world around them. By delving deep into one of America's most iconic figures, the show offers a fresh perspective on the country's founding and the important values that continue to shape it today.

Overall, Jefferson's Secret Bible is a must-watch for anyone interested in American history, religion, and the intersection of the two. The show is both entertaining and informative, presenting complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the enigmatic figure of Thomas Jefferson, this documentary is sure to leave you with a deeper understanding of the man and his beliefs.

Jefferson's Secret Bible is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between February 20, 2012 and on Smithsonian Channel