"The want of belief is a defect that ought to be concealed when it cannot be overcome"

This quote by Jonathan Swift suggests that a lack of belief in something ought to not be revealed if it can not be altered. He is indicating that it is much better to keep a lack of belief to oneself instead of to broadcast it to the world. This could be translated as a call to bear in mind how one expresses their viewpoints, especially when it comes to matters of faith. It is important to be respectful of other people's beliefs, even if one does not share them. Swift is recommending that it is much better to remain silent than to be vocal about one's lack of belief. He is likewise recommending that it is much better to attempt to conquer a lack of belief than to merely accept it. This quote motivates individuals to be open-minded and to aim to understand various perspectives, even if they do not agree with them.