While many hotel guests may not realize it, most rooms in commercial lodging establishments contain a Bible. There are several reasons for this long-standing tradition. First and foremost, the Bible is considered by many to be a source of comfort and inspiration, offering guidance on how to live a moral life. For guests who are away from home and feeling lonely or anxious, having a Bible in the room can provide some much-needed reassurance.
In addition, the Bible is also seen as a way to promote good behavior among hotel guests. Many hotels post signs in guest rooms reminding visitors that Thou shalt not steal from the Gideon's International organization, which provides free Bibles to hotels around the world. By having a physical copy of the Bible in each room, hotels are sending a clear message that they expect their guests to behave in a manner that is consistent with Christian values.
Finally, some hoteliers believe that providing Bibles in guest rooms is simply good business. In an industry where repeat business is essential for success, catering to religious travelers by making them feel welcome and comfortable can be a smart marketing move. After all, there are plenty of people out there who would rather stay in a hotel that respects their beliefs than one that does not.
Whether you view it as an act of hospitality or morality, there's no denying that having Bibles in hotel rooms has been standard practice for many years now. And based on the reasons outlined above, it doesn't seem like this tradition will be going away anytime soon.