I cannot tell you how many times I’ve read through the United States Constitution. My pocket copy from law school is dog-eared, highlighted, and annotated in the margins. I use the Constitution frequently in teaching my Paralegal Studies courses because, no matter what the course subject, all American law is influenced by this one document. And yet it wasn’t until today that I noticed something for the first time: the use of the secular alternative in the Presidential Oath of Office.
Before he enter on the execution of his office, he shall take the following oath or affirmation:–”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.”
- U.S. Const. art. II, ยง 1 (emphasis added)
It impresses me that people (or, at least, free, white, male, land owners) in 1787 thought that religiosity might be an unnecessary trait in a President. I continue to be amazed at the depth of thought put into our nation’s highest law.
Let me not overstate the case. Our constitutional system isn’t perfect. But it could still become so.
Excellent Blog. I’ve been reading along and just wanted to say hi. I will be reading more of your posts in the future.
- Jason.