Trump breaks tradition by not placing hand on Bible during oath of office: 'So does it still count?'

Trump’s decision not to place his hand on a Bible raises questions about protocol and tradition.

Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, made waves for more than just marking the start of his second term. During his swearing-in, Trump opted to skip the tradition of placing his hand on a Bible—an act that has become a symbolic part of the presidential oath of office since George Washington’s inauguration. This unexpected moment quickly drew attention, both online and from commentators, raising questions about the reasoning behind the president's decision.

Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath, instructing Trump to raise his right hand and repeat the words after him. As Roberts said, "I, Donald John Trump," First Lady Melania Trump stepped forward holding a stack of Bibles—one of which was the Lincoln Bible, and the other Trump’s personal Bible, gifted to him when he graduated from Sunday School. But instead of placing his left hand on the books, Trump kept his hand at his side and proceeded with the oath.

Trump’s team did not immediately comment on the reasoning behind the move, leaving much to speculation. Some online commentators thought that Roberts may have rushed the ceremony, while others couldn’t hide their disbelief. The absence of the Bible led many on social media to crack jokes or express concerns about the president’s respect for tradition.

One Twitter user quipped, "He was afraid his hand would burn if he put it on the Bible and lied." Another wondered, "So does it still count? Hearing rumors he can’t lift his hand above his waist. Could that be the reason?"

So does it still count ?

Hearing rumors he can’t lift his hand above his waist. Could that be the reason?

— The Resistor Sister®️♥️🇺🇸 (@the_resistor) January 20, 2025

Others questioned whether he intended to "uphold his oath," speculating that his lack of action during the ceremony could be a reflection of his past behavior.

All of us are witnessing the sad mockery of someone swearing an Oath they have no intention of upholding.#NationalDayOfMourning #Inauguration2025 #Resist #DoNotObeyInAdvance

— Daniel Santos (@mr_dsantos) January 20, 2025

In contrast, some defended Trump, pointing out that the Constitution does not mandate a Bible be used during the ceremony. In fact, Article II, Section 1, Clause 8 only requires the president to take the oath and recite the prescribed words: “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” As one user noted, “It’s the time. He was a minute over time. It’s the oath. He was administered it properly.”

Interestingly, this is not the first time a president has deviated from the Bible tradition. President John Quincy Adams used a law book instead of a Bible in his swearing-in. However, Trump’s decision has undoubtedly sparked more debate, particularly on social media. Some speculated that his actions were an intentional break from tradition, possibly representing a more secular view of the office, while others thought it could have been a technical issue—perhaps rushing through a ceremony that was running behind schedule.

While the ceremony remained largely in line with constitutional requirements, the internet was filled with mixed reactions. “Might as well have crossed his fingers behind his back,” one user quipped.

Might as well have crossed his fingers behind his back.

— Mona Christie (@MonaChristie) January 20, 2025

Most honest thing he’s ever done. Not like he’s gonna uphold his oath.

— M. Resisted (@AngryFedupVtr) January 20, 2025

Meanwhile, some seemed to think the absence of a Bible could symbolize a modern shift, with another commenter saying, “If you don’t actually believe in God or live as a Christian, it doesn’t really matter, does it?”

Not to put too fine a point on it, but if you don’t actually believe in god, or live as a Christian, it doesn’t really matter, does it? I find it ludicrous that there are actually people who believe he’s a Christian, but why would you use a bible if you don’t believe in god?

— Deb Sailor (@DebSailor1) January 20, 2025

For context, Trump’s two Bibles during the ceremony were significant in their own right. The Lincoln Bible, used by Abraham Lincoln in 1861, was also used by Barack Obama during his 2009 and 2013 inaugurations. The other Bible was Trump’s personal one, given to him in 1955 when he graduated from Sunday School.

While the Constitution does not require the Bible or any religious text, many have wondered if skipping the tradition was a conscious choice by Trump or simply an oversight. With the internet buzzing and memes flooding the web, this moment is certainly one that will be remembered for years to come.