Pentagon defends Pete Hegseth using 'Pulp Fiction' monologue as prayer at worship service

During a Pentagon worship service on Wednesday, Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host, recited a prayer that included a monologue resembling a fake Bible verse from Quentin Tarantino's film "Pulp Fiction." The specific lines referenced were delivered by Samuel L. Jackson's character in the movie, which includes the phrase about striking down enemies with "great vengeance and furious anger." Hegseth intended to invoke holy scripture while discussing the rescue mission of an American fighter pilot stranded in Iran but instead quoted this fictional dialogue (Entertainment Weekly, Deadline). The Pentagon defended Hegseth's actions, asserting that he was not misquoting an actual Bible passage. A Pentagon spokesman emphasized that the recitation was meant to be a prayer and pushed back against the notion that it was inappropriate or incorrect (Deadline). The incident has drawn significant attention and criticism, with various public figures, including Gavin Newsom, commenting on the situation, highlighting the absurdity of quoting a movie during a solemn occasion (Deadline). The prayer service and Hegseth's choice of words have sparked discussions about the appropriateness of using pop culture references in religious or military contexts. Critics have pointed out the potential implications of such a choice, especially in a setting as significant as the Pentagon (Hollywood Reporter, Variety). The event has raised questions about the intersection of entertainment and serious discourse within government settings.