Jeopardy! is known for challenging the wits and knowledge of its contestants, but a recent episode surprised both the players and Christian fans alike. The clue seemed simple enough, but all three participants were left baffled by a seemingly easy question about the famous Lord’s Prayer.
The $200 clue was read by host Mayim Bialik during the June 13 program in the category “Dadjectives.” The clue was based on the scripture found in Matthew 6:9: “Our Father Which Art In Heaven, This ‘Be Thy Name.’” The answer, which many Sunday school attendees would recall, is “hallowed” (or in Jeopardy! terms, “what is hallowed”).
The fact that none of the contestants knew the answer to one of the most popular prayers in Christianity resonated with viewers, particularly those of the Christian faith. One Twitter user expressed their surprise, saying, “Not one contestant on Jeopardy last night knew the answer to this… Are you waking up yet?” Another tweet compared the Lord’s Prayer to the Pledge of Allegiance, stating, “You just did,” implying that it should be common knowledge.
While some viewers interpreted this incident as a sign of waning confidence in the US, others simply found it surprising that such a seemingly straightforward question stumped the contestants. Even an atheist Twitter user pointed out, “I’m an atheist and even I knew the answer to that Lord’s prayer question.” Another tweet humorously questioned the contestants’ familiarity with the Lord’s Prayer, asking if they had never listened to Iron Maiden, who referenced it in their song “Hallowed Be Thy Name.”
Observers were taken aback that all the competitors failed to answer what appeared to be a simple question. However, it’s important to note that Jeopardy! regularly features questions on Christianity and the Bible, often challenging even devout churchgoers. In fact, some have complained that the show has too many Christian-related inquiries. Moreover, Jeopardy! welcomes contestants from diverse backgrounds and religious beliefs, making it likely that these three participants did not grow up in the same Christian environment as many viewers.
Despite the contestants’ struggle with the Lord’s Prayer, they fared better in the Final Jeopardy round when the answer related to ’70s movies. The question was, “He starred in the 2 films whose soundtracks were the top 2 bestselling albums of 1978.” The correct response was John Travolta, as the soundtracks for “Grease” and “Saturday Night Fever” topped the charts in that year. Suresh Krishnan, one of the competing contestants, managed to answer correctly and extended his winning streak to six games.
While the Lord’s Prayer moment on Jeopardy! raised eyebrows, it is just one instance in a wide array of questions that the show presents. What are your thoughts on the contestants’ unfamiliarity with the Lord’s Prayer? Share this story and let us know!
