Why Do Hotels Have Bibles?

Have you ever stayed at a hotel and noticed that there’s a bible in the drawer or on the nightstand? You might wonder why hotels have bibles, especially since not all guests are religious. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this common practice.

The History of Bibles in Hotels

It is worth mentioning that the practice of putting Bibles in hotel rooms started in the 19th century. Based on The Gideons International, one of their trustees go beyond and suggests supplying Bibles in hotel rooms. They called it “The Bible Project” which was later on adopted in Louisville, Kentucky in 1908. The group’s mission was to spread the Gospel and encourage people to read the Bible.

The Gideons International

The Gideons International is a Christian organization that distributes Bibles around the world. According to their website, the group has distributed over 2 billion Bibles and New Testaments in over 200 countries. They also provide Bibles to hospitals, prisons, and military bases.

When the Gideons began distributing Bibles to hotels, they saw it as an opportunity to reach people who might not otherwise have access to the Bible. Hotels are visited by people from all over the world, and the Gideons believed that placing Bibles in hotel rooms could help spread the Gospel to a wider audience.

The Benefits of Having Bibles in Hotels

A Comforting Presence

For some people, having a bible in their hotel room can be a comforting presence. Hotel guests feel more at ease knowing that a bible is available in their room. This is especially true for religious travelers who may feel more connected to their faith when away from home.

A Symbol of Hospitality

Having a bible in a hotel room can also be seen as a symbol of hospitality. Hotels want their guests to feel welcome and at home, and providing a bible can be one way to do that. It shows that the hotel is attentive to guests’ needs, regardless of their religious background.

A Piece of History

Hotels are often historical buildings that have been around for decades or even centuries. Keeping a bible in the room can be seen as a nod to the hotel’s history and tradition. It’s a reminder of the hotel’s roots and the values that have been important to guests over the years.

The Controversy Surrounding Bibles in Hotels

Religious Exclusivity

On the other hand, some people argue that having Bibles in hotel rooms is exclusive to Christianity and may make non-Christian guests uncomfortable. Therefore, some hotels offer different types of religious materials.

The Separation of Church and State

Another concern is the separation of church and state. Some people argue that hotels should not promote any particular religion and that having Bibles in hotel rooms could be seen as a violation of this principle.

Conclusion

Overall, the practice of having Bibles in hotel rooms is a long-standing tradition that has both benefits and drawbacks. While some guests appreciate the comfort and hospitality of having a bible available, others may feel excluded or uncomfortable. Ultimately, it is up to each individual hotel to decide whether or not to provide Bibles in their rooms.