Pete Hegseth stunned Pentagon worshippers by reciting a Pulp Fiction prayer invoking “great vengeance and furious anger” to spiritually arm America’s war against Iran.
Pentagon Service Details on April 15, 2026
Pete Hegseth hosted the second monthly worship service in the Pentagon chapel. He read from Luke 7, emphasizing those not offended by Jesus’ message. Hegseth then led participants in reciting the “CSAR 2517” prayer twice. The prayer called for “great vengeance and furious anger” upon enemies. Attendees included military personnel and leaders. An unnamed chaplain opened and closed in Jesus’ name. Hegseth discussed Iran blockades with Admiral Cooper beforehand.
Prayer Origins in Pulp Fiction and Ezekiel
The prayer echoes Ezekiel 25:17, where God promises vengeance on ancient Ammonites. Pulp Fiction’s Jules Winnfield delivers a dramatized version with lines like “the tyranny of evil men” and “brother’s keeper.” Hegseth’s adaptation, dubbed “CSAR 2517,” shifts the voice to U.S. commander “Sandy 1” in a Combat Search and Rescue operation. Sandy 1 extracted Air Force crew shot down in Iran. A lead mission planner delivered it to Hegseth days earlier, on April 13-14.
Hegseth’s Role and Symbolic Choices
Hegseth serves as U.S. Secretary of Defense under President Trump, confirmed after the 2024 election. He styles himself “secretary of war” and carries a Bible stamped “Deus Vult,” a Crusader battle cry meaning “God wills it.” The Jerusalem Cross adorns it. Hegseth explicitly linked the service to influencing military decisions in the Iran war, including rescues and blockades. A military official prayed for leaders to discern “glory in Jesus Christ.”
March 2026’s prior service featured another violent prayer. Hegseth’s Fox News background blends faith and warrior ethos. These choices motivate troops through Christian nationalism. Common sense affirms voluntary services boost morale, but blending Hollywood violence with scripture raises questions on appropriateness in official settings.
Stakeholders and Power Dynamics
Admiral Cooper conferred with Hegseth on strategy pre-service. Pentagon participants represent voluntary military attendees. Sandy 1’s anonymous planner authored the prayer to foster duty in rescues. Hegseth holds top civilian authority, reporting to Trump. Subordinates provide input, amplifying faith-war fusion. Motivations align with hawkish Iran policy, emphasizing unity and action against threats.
Impacts and Broader Debate
The event fuels church-state separation discussions in the military. Pro-war troops gain morale; others feel alienated. Politically, it bolsters Trump’s faith-driven image. Socially, it merges pop culture into sermons. Long-term, it risks politicized faith amid Iran escalation. Critics from progressive outlets call it bizarre Hollywood borrowing blessing war. Supporters see motivational rescue rhetoric. Limited corroboration beyond one source leaves room for Pentagon response. American conservative values prioritize strong defense rooted in Judeo-Christian heritage, yet discernment separates inspiration from cinematic flair.
What prayer did he recite for the 168 innocent little girls he murdered in an illegal sneak attack on Iran.
From my understanding he has yet to come forward and make apologies to the parents of these children.
Prey real hard war criminal.
PBS is so full of it. Needs de-funding NOW!! Such a great example of Left Wing BS.