On January 20, 2025, Donald J. Trump took the presidential oath of office without placing his hand on a Bible. This event took place during his second inauguration ceremony, where his wife, Melania Trump, held two Bibles—a family Bible and one used by Abraham Lincoln.
- Trump did not place hand on Bible.
- Tradition of using a Bible dates back.
- Constitution requires only the oath be taken.
- Previous presidents have varied in practices.
- Melania held two significant Bibles.
- White House did not clarify Trump's choice.
The tradition of presidents taking the oath with one hand on a Bible dates back to George Washington but is not mandated by the Constitution.
The practice of using a Bible during the presidential oath has been observed since George Washington’s first inauguration in 1789. While it has become customary for presidents to place their hand on a Bible or other significant text, there is no legal requirement for doing so. The U.S. Constitution simply states that the president must take an oath before assuming office.
Notably, Franklin Pierce broke from this tradition in 1853 when he did not kiss the Bible after taking his oath. Other presidents have also opted for alternatives; John Quincy Adams placed his hand on a book of law, and Lyndon B. Johnson used a Catholic prayer missal aboard Air Force One following John F. Kennedy’s assassination.
- George Washington: Used an altar Bible from a Masonic Lodge and kissed it after taking the oath.
- Franklin Pierce: Did not kiss or use a Bible during his inauguration.
- Theodore Roosevelt: Sworn in without using a Bible in 1901 after McKinley’s assassination.
This decision made by Trump at his second inauguration may reflect personal beliefs or preferences regarding religious symbols during official ceremonies. The absence of an explanation from the White House leaves room for speculation about its significance within contemporary political contexts.
In summary, Donald J. Trump’s decision to take the presidential oath without placing his hand on a Bible continues a complex history surrounding this ritual among U.S. presidents that blends tradition with individual choice.
