Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, drew widespread attention, not just for marking the beginning of his second term, but for a notable break with tradition.
During the oath of office, Trump did not place his hand on a Bible, a ritual followed by most U.S. presidents. The move has prompted questions and stirred up discussions across social media platforms. The only president that did not perform the act was Quincy Adams in 1825 during his presidential inauguration.
For centuries, U.S. presidents have traditionally placed their hand on a Bible while taking the oath of office, symbolizing a commitment to uphold the Constitution with truth and justice. However, Trump’s decision to omit this gesture stood out, leaving many wondering whether it was a personal choice, a symbolic statement, or a result of unforeseen circumstances.
Reports indicate that no official explanation was given during the ceremony, and the lack of a Bible during the swearing-in has sparked various theories. Some believe that Trump may have sought to emphasize the secular nature of the presidency, while others speculate that it could represent a shift toward a more modern interpretation of the oath, separating governance from religious symbolism.
In the wake of the ceremony, some have suggested that the absence of the Bible could have been due to a logistical error or time constraints, but there has been no official confirmation from Trump’s team. Social media quickly buzzed with speculation, with hashtags like #TrumpInauguration and #OathOfOffice trending across platforms.
This departure from tradition has garnered mixed reactions. Supporters argue it reflects a progressive stance, while critics claim it undermines an important American custom. Trump’s decision has also drawn comparisons to previous instances where presidents deviated from convention, such as John Quincy Adams, who swore his oath of office on a law book rather than a Bible, emphasizing the Constitution’s importance.
Why didn’t Donald Trump place his hand on the Bible during his 2025 inauguration?
Trump chose not to follow the traditional practice of placing his hand on a Bible, sparking debate about the reasoning behind the decision. No official explanation has been provided, but some speculate it was to highlight a secular interpretation of the presidency.
economictimes.indiatimes.com
