BUTO MAGAZINE

Trump’s Antithetical Break from the Norms

OPINION | SECTION

could TRUMP'S CHAOTIC MINDSET BE the RESULT OF DIVINE INSTRUCTIONS?

The below outline of Trump is a provocative and spiritually themed analysis of the president—his behavior and political career. It offers a bold theological and political reflection on Trump’s leadership, viewed through a biblical and critical lens, informed by both contemporary issues and historical legacy of religious, colonial European slaveholders and their manipulation of Africans and African Americans.

— Michael Taylor Greene

Story by: Harry F. Carter, Jr. | Updated July 20, 2025

Long-Form Journalism

The Trump madness may not be mere unscripted episodes designed for show, fodder “or chaos, but connected to his alignment with the creator Himself or, at least, in Trump’s chaotic mind.” During Trump’s campaign for president, he consistently invoked religion as part of his strategy. It was an open invitation to delve a bit deeper into Trump’s spiritual side in order to gain a better understanding of the 45th and now the 47th president of the United States and his values: both morally and politically. 

It prompted a turn to the Bible for understanding. Hopefully, this process will help to make clear how Trump won the presidency and why so many Hispanics, other minority groups, and white American women gave their unfettered loyalty, strong support, and trust to a man who said and showed contempt for them and their needs. Especially perplexing is how they voted so overwhelmingly for a Trump second term in the light of his tempestuous, discriminatory, oppressive, and violent first-term in office. 

As a result of conducting Biblical research for answers, it led to a serendipitous, or a possible “miraculous discovery” of two passages from the Bible: “Isaiah 45 and 47.” Although theologically speculative, symbolic, personal, and interpretive, these two scriptures seem to correlate with Trump’s two terms; being the “45th and now the 47th” president of the United States of America.

“I may be overthinking the process, but I want answers—and I know you, the reader, do as well. God invites us to seek understanding. As I pondered this, I thought of Job—a wealthy, righteous man whose faith was tested. In the midst of his suffering, Job questioned God, as I often do. But God responded not with answers, but questions—revealing both the limits of human understanding and the depth of His knowledge and wisdom. It’s a reminder that, whether in faith or doubt, we all wrestle with hard questions—and at times have the need to question God directly.”

The biblical passages reveal that God (Yahweh) uses both good and evil to keep people aligned in faith. Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but the sinners to repentance.” These passages also serve as a condemnation of Babylon’s pride and self-reliance, thereby setting the stage for the wrath of God and Babylon’s decline—going from a major power to abandonment. 

My aim in this article is to explore the symbolic significance that some people attach to Donald Trump as both the 45th and 47th U.S. president. The biblical passages of Isaiah 45 and 47— give the impression to some, as aligning with President Trump’s political position and actions. While interpretations and views vary, some strong supporters of Trump draw thematic parallels that reflect on leadership, divine sovereignty, and God’s judgment, as it might relate to the president.

Isaiah 45 concerns Cyrus, the Persian king and follower of Zoroastrianism, who was anointed by God (despite not being a believer in the God of Israel) to free the Jews from Babylonian captivity. This passage reflects God’s sovereignty and grace—demonstrating that God can use non-believers to fulfill His mission, including the deliverance of His people. This passage is often interpreted as a symbol of righteousness, divine deliverance, and the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan. 

Isaiah 47 by contrast, reveals that God’s sovereignty extends even over those who oppose Him—using them to do great things for His glory. Additionally, Isaiah 47 concerns the prophecy against Babylon, foretelling its humiliation and downfall. It highlights the consequences of its blatant arrogance, cruelty, and the oppression of God’s people. Unlike Isaiah 45, which focuses on divine judgment—emphasizing that those who exalt themselves and defy God’ justice will ultimately be brought low. 

The chapter describes Babylon as a luxurious woman who is publicly humiliated and brought down by God. It reveals the futility of relying on worldly power, sorcery, or idolatry in the face of divine judgment.

Again, as I am not a “biblical scholar, theologian, or religious historian”—much of what I have surmised is purely speculative and personally interpretative.” I just ask God to rain on me and this article—making it an instrument of His grace, to bring forth some directional knowledge for today’s troubled souls: especially as they (and I) navigate life in the era of Trumpism. 

The similarities are quite remarkable, especially when you consider how Trump appoints people who don’t fit the traditional characteristics of cabinet or White House roles, and how he constantly elevates himself to a God-like level. 

Just as Cyrus was a none believer of God—a follower of Zoroastrianism—Trump appears to be aligned to the Heritage Foundation, an organization bent on discriminatory policies aimed at marginalized groups and the new immigrants. The Heritage Foundation is a conservative policy institute [thinktank] known to promote questionable biblical interpretations and influencing public policy to mirror their own religious agenda. 

Additionally, I see comparisons in President Trump’s leadership style and his selection of controversial figures for key positions in his administration. Many of these appointees faced accusations of misconduct, ethical violations, or promoted divisive ideologies. Yet they were selected to help carry out Trump’s vision to restore order and root out corruption in Washington, D.C.’s political systems.

Notwithstanding, from a theological perspective, critics have describe the nature of Trump’s presidency as vile, pompous, and proud—marked by many moral compromises along with the inclusion of disturbing and discriminatory individuals. The Trump team appears to be characterized as lovers of self, idolatrous, and drawn to forms of sorcery: as opposed to “genuine divine justice and righteousness.” A pattern if continued, is expected to end like Babylon—in failure (unless, of course, God has His hands on Trump and the end justifies the means).

“The Trump worshipers appear to place more trust in human wisdom and knowledge, idolizing Trump—whom they feel is invincible and having the leadership prowess to save this nation and troubled world—beyond that of a Godly divine spirit.” 

This raises a fundamental question: is Donald Trump’s decision to use his position of power as a wrecking ball to the many well-established institutions and policies rooted in Washington, DC’s politics a reflection of biblical principles? Some Christians believe so. They fear if he does not fulfill his holy task, the world as we know it today—will be destroyed. They believe there is profound and scriptural meaning behind the incoming president’s actions for “good and bad”—which will become clearer overtime.

More importantly, many of these Christians have endorsed the idea that even Trump’s negative treatment of others and his role in fueling the internal strife between Democrats and Republicans, may carry unexpected spiritual significance. It is believed that Trump’s calling to the seat of power for a second term—despite his many court cases and critiques— will reveal itself in time. Citing Ecclesiastes, “there is a time for everything under the sun” and Trump’s divine mission will become known when that moment arrives. 

Some have speculated that he has come forth, strangely, to facilitate a realignment of individuals across a wide-spectrum of cultures and nations, to become reunited in the faith of God.

“Yet, there are many others, both Christians and non-believers, who believe Trump’s ascent to the Oval Office is due to political fatigue syndrome, the desire for radical change, an ignorant voting block on all sides of the political spectrum or through Trump’s rhetoric and his ambiguous oratory skills [masked for his own exclusive self-interest].” 

Image and appearance are powerful tools—especially when personal agendas are at play. President-elect Donald J. Trump and incoming First Lady Melania Trump were seen greeting a reverend during the Inaugural Day service at St. John’s Church in Washington, D.C.—a symbolic gesture that underscored their carefully curated public image. This is something that President Trump care most about.

Many American citizens have made it clear that the president’s choices for top senior level positions in his administration fall short on competency, organizational capabilities, and the ability to carry out their assigned duties. These shortfalls include vital areas within his administration like problem-solving, teamwork, communications, and governance. 

Essentially, the selected “Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI”) antagonist of President Trump’s senior administration (are working vehemently against protagonist for Democracy). Ironically, these members of the president’s royal dynasty are supposed to be superior to governmental employees fired, but seem to “literally” fall into the same or even worst “bucket of deplorables.”  Yes, the same as those government workers in which Trump’s administration is known to “unfairly” attack, fire, and label as incompetent. 

Unlike the government employees who were unjustly terminated, many of Trump’s new White House hires—particularly those in roles opposing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives—have shown they lack the capacity to fulfill their obligations and the commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to them by President Trump himself. Yet, despite their consistent display of incompetence, they are afforded the opportunity to continue to hold their key positions. It’s almost like Trump is weaponizing incompetence against the American people, especially towards the marginalized and  disenfranchised.  

Case and point: the “Signalgate” episode which involved a Trump administration governmental group chat that leaked top-secret vital war plans on a consumer based app: Signal messaging service—”a free and open-source consumer platform not designed for secret classified communications.” 

An outlandish and serious breach of monumental proportion occurred: A member of the press (Jeffery Goldberg, editor-in-chief of the Atlantic magazine) was inadvertently placed on the highly “Top Secret” chat thread and overheard all the imminent military operational maneuvers against the Houthis in Yemen—a dangerous adversary of the United States. 

The chat was comprised of Top level U.S. national security officials—convened by the newly confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, whose competency for the position was in question from the beginning of his confirmation hearing. In spite of the many in the Senate, having reservations as to his experience and competency for the position, he was confirmed for the top military position. The position carries an enormous amount of responsibility, including oversight of personnel, budgets, national security, and military operations to name a few. It was a 50-50 vote—the tie was broken by Vice President JD Vance resulting in a 51-50 confirmation.

Another “faux pas” was made by another (DEI) high level pick of the Trump administration, notably one who has publicly opposed Diversity Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. It was this individual who authorized the illegal transport of “innocent” nongang member Venezuelan migrants to one of the most dangerous maximum security prisons in the world—El Salvador’s notorious CECOT penitentiary. It’s known for harsh treatment of its inmates. 

Prisoners receive no recreation, visitation, education, mattress or meat in their diet or any of the standard amenities of prison life afforded at other high level prison institutions. It has been said that prisoners are given small portions of food to keep them weak and nonaggressive as well as keeping the lights on 24/7. This treatment raises serious humanitarian concerns that warrants further investigation.

However, in the Bible: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, it is made abundantly clear that God selected flawed individuals with a terrible past, a shaky present, and an uncertain future — to do amazing things that have resulted directly from their efforts—for God uses sinners for His glory. Maybe President Trump is onto something which is not apparent to the American people thus far—and as Christians say, who are we to judge?

Trust me, “I am far from sanctimonious, but what if Trump’s dismal decisions and strategies are modeled after God’s own methods?” Scripture shows that our Savior chose the most unlikely individuals to reveal His power. He used unorthodox provisions, and at times, flawed people—aimed at evil and wicked people to inspire righteousness within them. Jesus encouraged wicked people such as hate-mongers, racists, white supremacists, and others of immoral repute to turn the corner towards fairness and morally just behavior. 

Could it be that Trump, in a strange way unfamiliar to our way of thinking, is being used not as Christ Himself, but similarly to how God used unlikely individuals—to bring justice, harmony, and equality to America and the world? In no way am I attempting to let Trump off the hook for the damage he caused, or scapegoat him for God’s will. I am just exploring a strategy that, historically and biblically, has been used by the Teacher Himself. I’ve seen stranger things occur in my short span of life where people achieved both positive and negative outcomes in the midst of chaos and confusion.

Perhaps God’s goal is to reveal to Trump’s selection of unqualified [DEI] department heads and cabinet members the need for redemption and deeper understanding. It’s possible that, God was offering them (Trump’s hires) the option to view their roles through a spiritual lens—inviting them to not only see, but to feel the harm they inflict on to others by their decisions. 

By witnessing firsthand the impact of Trump’s leadership, their actions, and the effect of radical policies, they may come to recognize the importance of social responsibility. This awakening might inspire them to build genuine, diverse connections and pursue equity choices rather than those which creates division. In other words, they might begin to search for ways to contribute towards a more robust society—one that functions absent the ongoing racist attacks, misogyny, antisemitism, strife, and the chaos of political warfare. 

For all that is known, Trump’s inhospitable actions might be part of a larger and more complex strategy that was divinely installed into his mission for the sake of humanity. Let us hope so. We must keep an open yet watchful eye on the current president as he navigates his “duly elected” role as president. 

At present, the current Trumpian mission seems to be anchored in destruction and chaos, leading America and the world toward a raging dystopian society with no visible signs for correction. However, many believe it is the end result that will determine Trump’s overall mission and its viability to [all] the people in America and beyond.   

This would not be the first time that God has used people for his purpose and glory. For example, He used ordinary individuals like the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mary Teresa Bojaxhiu (Mother Teresa), Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi), Rosa Louise McCauley Parks (Rosa Parks), and others—too many to name. Their stories remind us that divine purpose can become visible from unexpected people or places—as it is God’s will.

Clearly, the citizens of America were obviously disenchanted with the status quo of the Democratic Party, as well as with previous Republican administrations. Maybe God chose Trump (the outsider) as the disruptor of a well documented, corrupt system of government. Trump’s role may not be to restore order or lead successfully, but possibly to expose the system’s flaws, by bring shame and disfunction to his own presidency.  

According to the New Testament, God chose several individuals as disruptors that challenged the immoral corrupt systems and the well established deviant norms of the times. He used figures like Jesus and the prophets Amos and Paul, to reestablish core values and to recalibrate society’s moral compass. These are prime examples of how He placed people in positions which often faced resistance in the midst of advocating for a new vision and pathways towards a more enriched and peaceful world.   

The truth be told, Donald Trump has never explicitly claimed to be the Messiah. Although his demeanor unequivocally makes one feel that he views himself that way. It is his public persona, personal behavior, and political stance as well as his god-like sense of superiority and authority over the American citizens, every branch of the U.S. government and international affairs, which presents the “holier than thou” aura around President Trump. It could just be his autocratic tendencies at work. But what if it’s not? What if God, in some way, is guiding Trump’s chaotic mindset?  

Many Christian and loyal followers view Trump as embodying a “Godly” fighting spirit, drawing strength and guidance from what they perceive as his faith and spiritual convictions. They interpret Trump’s relentless and unbending stance on complex policy issues as a reflection of him staying close to biblical principles and his affirming to live in accordance to Christian beliefs. Unfortunately, these convictions are often aligned, more so, with the values of his Christian loyalist base—such as the Heritage Foundation, tech-billionaires, political cronies, and other stakeholders—rather than the needs of society as a whole. The question remains: will he break free from their grip, so he can truly shine as expected? 

Trump’s will and courage to fight when things appear bleak or unattainable, makes it appear to some as though Trump is a supreme or a divine figure sent by God to challenge evil. However, for others, this scenario present a troubling dilemma, as they see Trump’s mission as one more aligned with “Lucifer—the devil, the angel who rebelled against God and was cast out of heaven.” Ultimately, it is a personal decision as to whether Trump is good or evil—divinely inspired or dangerously misguided.  

But again, the question remains, what if Trump has been chosen—not inspite of his errors and flaws, but because of them—to help heal a divided nation and world?

Personally, I understand peoples reservations as to President Trump’s religious legitimacy as a spiritual guide. Most of the damage he has created thus far is “done in real time,” and its effects are immediately felt. Therefore, we must recognize that Trump is not the first and neither will he be the last political leader to use religion to gain power and authority in America or on the international stage. 

Many autocrats and plutocrats throughout history have used religion to gain and maintain power and control. They bridge religious ideology to shape the future of their respective countries, while advancing their own exclusive personal agendas [not] ordained by God. 

Adolf Hitler, Nazi Germany’s ruthless and murderous dictator utilized religion to manipulate public opinion in his governance to consolidate power. Trump, like other authoritarians, dictators, and despots, understand how religion taps into the emotional ties to people’s intrinsic beliefs in faith. A faith that is connected to a “Higher Power” or religious traditions, which formulates an upright and moral society. It provides people with an identity, rules, and a sense of belonging.

HISTORY AND REAL KNOWLEDGE TEACHES US RELIGION WITHOUT A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, LEADS TO SPIRITUAL MINIPULATION 

Dictators and autocrats like Trump, can indeed be lead by God for the better good of mankind and society. However, their actions can also be dark, sinister, and calculated toward manipulating religion to advance their own personal or political agendas—cloaked under the guise of righteousness. 

This tactic, with deep historical roots, was used notably during the transatlantic slave trade. Various religious techniques and scriptures were employed to gain support of some native Africans, who were used to entrap their fellow countrymen and women. By invoking and justifying religious doctrines in their appeals, African spiritual converts of Christianity—often influenced by European colonizers—assisted in identifying and capturing other Africans for the brutal slave trade. European colonizers, including missionaries and settlers, further strengthened colonial accounts by categorizing local populations as “hunters-gathers,” and “pastoralist,” as well as issuing other strategic labels for the mesmerized Africans. It was an effort to weaponize European religious ideology as a tool of manipulation and control in the broader process of enslavement. (It is a tool still being use today by many who seek to abuse the masses of people who are faith driven.) 

Under the guise of religious agents, these ruthless colonizers achieved unimaginable success while perpetrating one of the most inhumane, violent, and deadly assaults on humanity.

Photo by the Library of congress: showing president George Washington.

The picture above is of George Washington. He inherited enslaves people at a young age, and slavery continued throughout his presidency and life. As a slave owner, Washington administered extreme punishment and pursue anyone one who tried to escape. Though he afforded basic necessities, the people he enslaved were denied their freedom and treated like second-class citizens (property), rather than human beings. It is believed Washington, like many of his contemporaries, used religious doctrines to justify or maintain the social order including slavery. 

people hunting tiger charcoal painting

Photo by the British Library

European colonizers in Africa, armed and prepared to assert dominance, confront wild animals during their expedition—quick to kill any threat. With the same ruthless resolve, they imposed religious doctrine on African communities, often resorting to violence against those who resist conversion or colonial rule.

people harvesting crops painting

Photo by the British Library

Newly arrived enslaved Africans labor under brutal conditions on Southern plantations during the Antebellum era. Closely monitored by white overseers wield violence and fear, the enslaved were forced to toil from dawn to dusk, enduring unimaginable hardship in a system built on dehumanization and control by way of beatings, torture, and religious manipulation.

Today’s political and spiritual leaders—both Black and White—continue to galvanize and exploit the faithful. They deceive political constituents and church congregants into giving up their hard earned money and time in support of self-serving political and pseudo or quasi-religious agendas. For both of these entities, their methodologies frequently center around cult-building in lieu of an honest and a real “faithful” focus—a focus having a just and moral cause, such as equality, diversity, and the pursuit of a morally upright society. 

Instead, their efforts are designed for selfish gain, as is frequently the case with autocratic and false religious regimes. (As a note to readers: This is not to say all autocratic regimes and false religious organizations are never motivated by moral causes, as some may be. I just wanted to make the point that far too many are not and are driven by self-serving interest.)  

Many of today’s Christians view religion as living according to God’s truth, which includes upholding the principles of separation of church and state. This concept supports a community of laws where one can feel normal, safe, and have hope in the future for themselves and their families—absent the political government and its shameful warring initiatives and unjust politics affecting large segments of the population.  

It is common for these crafty dictatorial figures to use religion as Trump did in his bid for a second term in the White House. Once they have become victorious, they normally do an immediate about face on their initial promises to the people who elected them. Regrettably, they turning their backs on their constituents and the most fragile in society: the marginalized and disproportionate—while they find solace in working exclusively for their own exclusive personal gain. 

Trump, a crafty politician, business mogul, and entertainer, used both: religion and theatrical imagery to portray himself as the ultimate leader chosen by God. Trump enveloped God-like imagery that he is the only candidate capable of restoring America and the world. It was this type of an illusion and rhetoric which helped Trump rally people behind his vision of nationalism and White male superiority and rule. Was this his ultimate plan or did he use this methodology as a tool? I have my doubts, but know one really knows the heart of another human being. 

I myself have met individuals that seemed to be extremely pleasant and kind, but turned out to be tyrants. I have also encountered people that was awful, menacing, and appearing completely corrupt but turned out to be angel-like in spirit with huge hearts and compassion for others.

But what I do know, is the sheer level of religious manipulation by autocratic and fake religious leaders are spellbinding for their followers—especially those who attend Trumps political rallies. 

The imagery and rhetoric, by all appearances and through their words seems magnanimous, godly, and unpretentious. All while autocrats and corrupt religious leaders, and others plot deviously to build a kingdom by robbing those who believe in them of all their valued possessions and more importantly, time. Which is one of the reasons why it has been emphasized by many the importance of separation of church and state”, as well as vetting carefully the people you choose to serve.

It is this political manipulation by unprincipled leaders who use peoples deep beliefs in their faith to exploit and bend them toward their not so upright religious or political agendas. However, Trump legitimately won his reelection bid, and we, the democratic citizens of America, who firmly value democracy must give him a bit of “monitored” leeway in the event he is guided by way of divine direction and not self-serving interest.

I realize this may be jarring for some but at this juncture, “the non-Trumpets” have no other alternative but to look up and fight “strategically,” rather than grasping at straws: a metaphoric expression of a drowning person trying to save himself by grabbing at flimsy reeds. 

The Trump administration secured all three branches of government and won the popular vote. The Democrats must now develop a better mouse trap to secure the confidence of the American people. This will take serious thought, timing, and eliciting ground-breaking strategies, and powerful fighting mechanisms to overcome the grasp and influence Trump has over America. Furthermore, it will take fortitude and a clear vision to garner the trust and support of the American people—which is key to overtaking the grip of power of Trumpism and MAGA.