I have some automations that I may have disabled for a variety of reasons, but occasionally I really would like to be able to make some edits while the routine is disabled. I don't work on my car while it's going down the freeway - why do I have to edit procedures while they're busy running and potentially creating havoc?
If it's a Rule Machine rule, enable it and then pause it.
I believe it’s technically not possible to do this when the rule is disabled.
There are several built-in automation apps that can be paused in addition to rule machine. Basic rules, notifications, visual rules builder, room lighting, simple automation rules all come to mind.
Pause is what the OP is looking for, not disable.
Yep. Disabling is an extreme measure that prevents any app code from running. The app UI itself is defined by code. So, this isn't possible.
Luckily, as you pointed out, there are alternatives, "Pause" or "Stop" likely being a good fit here (Rule Machine), or similar features in other apps, for the stated use.