On April 21, 2026, President Donald Trump will add a new chapter to his presidency — literally. As the nation marks 250 years of the Bible in America, Trump will read a passage from the Old Testament.
Trump reads the Bible verse amidst a historic initiative
The passage chosen by Trump is 2 Chronicles 7:11-22. This scripture is significant as it is often cited by his Christian supporters as a call to national repentance and divine blessing. The reading will be part of the "America Reads the Bible" initiative, a week-long national Scripture reading event that began on April 18 and runs through April 25, 2026. The event is open to all Americans, with nearly 500 participants, including Trump, taking part. The country's highest office participating in this event underscores the initiative's significance and the administration's efforts to integrate religion, particularly Christianity, into official business.
The initiative is historic, marking 250 years of the Bible in America. In a Presidential Message, Trump recognized the event, stating, "In every generation, through every trial and triumph, God's Word has guided our people and our country to greatness." The initiative aims to commemorate this enduring legacy and foster a sense of unity and spiritual reflection among Americans.
Trump's Bible reading amid diplomatic tensions
As Trump prepares to read the Bible verse, the act carries an added layer of tension. This comes amid a recent diplomatic spat with Pope Leo XIV. The feud escalated over issues such as Iran and an AI-generated image of Jesus. The administration downplayed the tensions, but the timing of the Bible reading seems to coincide with efforts to mend fences.
Trump's participation in the "America Reads the Bible" initiative is part of a broader effort by his administration to integrate religion into official business. This move comes at a time when the administration is facing scrutiny over its policies and the role of religion in governance.
But, why 2 Chronicles 7:11-22? Trump's choice of scripture is not arbitrary. The passage resonates deeply with his base, particularly evangelical Christians. It speaks of God's promise to hear from heaven, forgive sin, and heal the land. The evangelical community views this passage as a call for national repentance and a plea for divine intervention. By choosing this scripture, Trump sends a clear message to his supporters, aligning himself with their beliefs and values.
As the nation observes this historic initiative, all eyes will be on the Oval Office. The passage that Trump reads could resonate beyond the confines of the White House. The "America Reads the Bible" initiative serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of scripture in American life and the ongoing dialogue between faith and governance.
What message will Trump convey through his Bible reading, and how will his Christian supporters interpret it? Will this act of scripture reading foster unity or further divide? The nation watches and waits, as the pages of history are turned over for another chapter in the Trump presidency.
