Pete Hegseth Recites Biblical ‘Prayer’ That’s Actually a “Pulp Fiction” Quote

**Defense Secretary’s Controversial Prayer Recitation Raises Eyebrows**

During a recent worship service held at the Pentagon, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth made a surprising remark that has sparked considerable discussion. He recounted a prayer shared with him by a U.S. soldier, which has drawn scrutiny for its similarity to a well-known scene from Quentin Tarantino’s iconic film, *Pulp Fiction*.

While addressing attendees, Hegseth referenced a prayer about the rescue of two Air Force crew members who were shot down over Iran. He attributed this prayer, nicknamed “CSAR 25:17”, to the operation’s lead planner. “They call it CSAR 25:17, which I think is meant to reflect Ezekiel 25:17,” he explained, before reciting the passage.

The text of the prayer included phrases such as, “The path of the downed aviator is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men.” This dramatic wording closely mirrors a famous monologue delivered by Samuel L. Jackson’s character, Jules Winnfield, in the 1994 film.

In *Pulp Fiction*, Jules begins by asking a character named Brett if he reads the Bible, leading into his reinterpretation of Ezekiel 25:17. The film’s version includes lines like “Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and goodwill, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness,” which, while thematically resonant, stray significantly from the actual biblical text.

In fact, only the concluding line of Hegseth’s recitation finds its roots in the bible. While Hegseth’s final phrase references Ezekiel, the lead-up is a creative adaptation more reminiscent of Tarantino’s cinematic flight of fancy. It is worth noting that the original biblical verse, as found in many modern translations, uses the phrasing “And you will know I am the Lord,” diverging further from the film’s depiction.

This incident comes amidst heightened scrutiny over the appropriateness of religious expression within the U.S. military environment, and follows contentious remarks made by Hegseth during a press briefing the following day. He compared certain media personalities to the Pharisees, a group often portrayed in biblical accounts as antagonistic towards Jesus.

Hegseth’s remarks, made during a discourse on church and state, suggested that the media’s critical coverage of the government draws parallels with the biblical sect’s behaviour. “The so-called and self-appointed elites of their time … were there to witness, but their hearts were hardened,” he stated, further asserting that the media aimed to undermine the administration’s actions.

The reaction to Hegseth’s sermon and subsequent comments highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the role of religion in public life. Advocacy groups such as Americans United for Separation of Church and State have expressed disapproval, raising concerns that government officials are exerting religious influence within their workplaces.

In light of these tensions, the advocacy group has filed lawsuits against the Department of Defense and the Department of Labor. They argue that officials are imposing their religious values on federal employees, undermining the principle of secular governance. “The federal government’s role is to serve the public, not to proselytise,” remarked Rachel Laser, president of the organisation.

The ongoing debate about the inclusion of religious practices within federal agencies has intensified, especially regarding voluntary prayer services that some employees feel pressured to attend. Critics argue that such actions perpetuate a Christian nationalist agenda, particularly in light of the previous administration’s policies that encouraged this kind of religious expression.

As these discussions unfold, Secretary Hegseth’s comments underscore the complex intersection of faith, governance, and media response in contemporary American society. Whether this episode will lead to increased scrutiny or changes within military practices remains to be seen, but it serves as a poignant reminder of the need for careful consideration of the boundaries between personal beliefs and public duties.