During inaugurations, oaths of office, and other formal ceremonies, it is customary for individuals to place a hand on a religious text, often the Bible, while reciting the oath. This gesture is generally understood as a request for divine blessing or a demonstration of sincerity and solemnity in the commitment being made. The absence of this gesture can lead to speculation and inquiry.
The practice of using a religious text during oaths has deep historical roots in Western legal and political traditions. It symbolizes a connection to a higher moral authority and reinforces the binding nature of the promise being made. Deviations from this accepted practice, whether intentional or unintentional, are noteworthy because they challenge expectations and can be interpreted as statements about the individual’s personal beliefs or relationship with tradition.