The Saint John's Bible in Collegeville is the first hand-illuminated, hand-written calligraphy Bible produced in 500 years.

President Donald Trump faced backlash after critics noted that he did not place his hand on the Bible during his inauguration on Monday, raising questions about the tradition’s significance ...

Images from the inauguration show President Trump did not put his hand on a Bible as he was sworn in by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. It is not required in the Constitution.

Images from the inauguration show President Trump did not put his hand on a Bible as he was sworn in by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. It is not required in the Constitution.

The tradition of swearing the oath of office on a Bible stretches back to George Washington, but not all presidents have observed it.

Donald Trump raised his right hand while placing his left hand on the Bible Monday afternoon. He then took the oath of office and was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.

President Donald Trump didn't place his hand on the Bible as he took the oath of office on Monday.

Donald Trump raised his right hand while placing his left hand on the Bible Monday afternoon. He then took the oath of office and was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.

Despite social media attention, the Constitution protects freedom of religion. So putting a hand on a Bible, or even using one at all, isn't required.

Photos of the swearing-in of President Donald Trump on Monday show him with his hand at his side, not atop the Bible.

Photos of the swearing-in of President Donald Trump on Monday show him with his hand at his side, not atop the Bible.