President Donald Trump recorded a Bible reading from the Oval Office this week, getting both praise and criticism as he remains at odds with Pope Leo over the war in Iran. The video aired as part of a national scripture-reading event. It came one week after Trump deleted an AI-generated image of himself that many have said depicted him as Jesus.
Donald Trump reads Bible verse in Oval Office
In the video, Donald Trump reads the Bible passage 2 Chronicles 7:11–22. Sitting at the Resolute Desk, the president recites the verses, which include the line: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
The reading formed part of “America Reads the Bible”, a weeklong event that organizers call a “spiritual celebration of our nation’s founding ideals.” More than 500 people participated, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Senators Ted Cruz and Joni Ernst.
Critics dismissed the reading as a “political stunt.” Brian Kaylor, author of “The Bible According to Christian Nationalists”, told The Associated Press that Trump misapplied the scripture. “It is a promise made to one particular person in one particular moment. It doesn’t really work to pull it out of context.”
A user posted on X, “Please keep religion far away from the government. Last thing we need is another ‘dark age’.” Another said, “Even Nero and Hitler didn’t stoop so low as to manipulate Holy Scripture for self glorification.”
Meanwhile, supporters praised the president’s participation. “This is a strong message for Iran. Only those with wisdom, knowledge, and understanding will know the interpretation,” one X user posted. Bunni Pounds, founder of Christians Engaged, which organized the event, told The Associated Press that Trump’s choice of passage made “a powerful statement” (via Independent).
The scripture reading comes as friction between Pope Leo and Donald Trump continues.
Originally reported by Devanshi Basu on Mandatory.
