Pete Hegseth, the controversial Secretary of Defense nominee under President-Elect Donald Trump, is a war veteran, double Ivy Leaguer, and a two-time Bronze Star recipient. While many of his tattoos have sparked debate, one in particular draws attention for its ancient roots. It features the Greek letters Chi (Χ) and Rho (Ρ), a combination that forms an early Christian symbol known as the Christogram—one of the first representations of Christianity.
The Chi-Rho symbol
The Chi-Rho is one of the earliest symbols of Christianity. It originates from the Greek word “ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ” (Christos), meaning Christ, and is formed by superimposing the letters chi (Χ) and rho (Ρ). The symbol gained significant prominence during the reign of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great (306 AD).
According to historical accounts, Constantine saw a vision of the Chi-Rho (ΧΡ) before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, which he interpreted as a divine sign of protection. After adopting the Chi-Rho as his military standard, Constantine won the battle and later made Christianity the state religion of the Roman Empire.
In todays Christianity, the Chi-Rho continues to be a powerful symbol of faith, especially among Orthodox Christians. It serves as a reminder of Christ’s presence in believers’ lives and is often displayed in Christian art. Many Christians, including Hegseth, choose to tattoo the Chi-Rho as a personal declaration of faith.
Pete Hegseth’s tattoos
Hegseth boasts more than a dozen tattoos across his right arm and chest, several of which have sparked controversy. While some view his ink as a reflection of his values—blending religious devotion with patriotism and military service—others have raised concerns about associations with white supremacist symbols.
Sherrilyn Ifill, former director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, called Hegseth ‘a known white supremacist’ and ‘extremist’ during an appearance on MSNBC’s All In with Chris Hayes. Ifill also criticized his book, saying it opposes the advancement of Black officers to top military positions.”
Anyone else notice that Pete Hegseth’s prominent tattoo is a symbol of the Knights Templar AND he has Heterochromia? #StingOpsSecretSociety pic.twitter.com/inh1692r8G
— KC Sunshine Pro Singer 🌞 Kailea Christiana (@KaileaChristian) November 14, 2024
Jerusalem Cross: This design features a large central cross surrounded by four smaller crosses. Historically associated with the Crusades—a period with complex and often controversial implications in Christian history—the design has more recently been linked to certain factions of Christian nationalism, raising concerns about its associations.
“Deus Vult”: This Latin phrase, meaning “God wills it,” was used as a battle cry during the Crusades. In recent years, it has been appropriated by far-right groups, adding a layer of controversy to its meaning.
Cross and sword with Hebrew : Hegseth’s arm features a tattoo of a cross intertwined with a sword, that references the New Testament verse Matthew 10:34, which says, ‘Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.’
Later, while working on a Fox series, he added Hebrew lettering to the design, spelling the word ‘Yahweh,’ which he explained as representing ‘Jesus in Hebrew.’ However, official translations of the term render it as ‘I am’ or ‘He will be,’ which refers to the name of God in the Old Testament.
Military Symbols: Hegseth also bears tattoos honoring his military service, such as a patch from the 187th Infantry Regiment, and phrases like “We the People,” referencing the U.S. Constitution.
Religious and patriotic symbols or white supremacism?
Whether Hegseth’s tattoos are purely expressions of religious devotion and patriotism or carry more troubling associations with racism and white supremacy remains uncertain. However, as he steps into the role of Secretary of Defense, the true nature of his beliefs and values will likely become clearer. Over time, his actions and decisions will reveal which side of this debate he truly aligns with.