Ashley James Sparks Controversy with Biblical Post on Easter Sunday

Media personality Ashley James has found herself at the center of a heated debate after sharing a biblical passage on Instagram during her solo vacation in Tulum, Mexico. The 39-year-old mother of two posted a bikini photo on Easter Sunday alongside what she called “a favorite reading from the bible” – Psalm 116, verse 11: “I said in my haste. All men are liars.”

The post quickly divided her followers, with some accusing her of mocking Christianity on one of the religion’s holiest days, while others praised her commentary on the intersection of faith and politics.

In a lengthy caption explaining her post, James addressed critics who have previously labeled her as “woke” or a “feminazi” and suggested she “find God.” She clarified that while she respects all faiths, she objects to religion being used to “justify war, control, and oppression,” particularly when it polices “women’s bodies, sexuality, and queer communities” or fuels “hostility towards immigrants.”

James specifically referenced recent American political discourse, criticizing Paula White-Cain for comparing Donald Trump to Jesus by saying he had been “betrayed,” “arrested,” and “falsely accused.” She also mentioned Franklin Graham’s use of religious language to frame war and position Trump as “chosen by God.”

“Do you really believe Jesus would support stripping families apart and detaining them? Building ballrooms while people struggle to survive? Accepting a $400m private jet while cutting healthcare?” James questioned in her post. “Faith, to me, should be about compassion, equality, and human rights. Creating a world of love and peace.”

The reaction in her comments section reflected the polarizing nature of mixing religion and politics. Critics expressed disappointment with her timing and approach, with one writing, “Please don’t mock the Bible. And on this sacred and Holy weekend let’s not tie Trump and his antics back to Jesus.” Another commented, “Posting this on Easter Sunday is offensive and I’m no snowflake.”

Others, however, supported James’s perspective. Television presenter Carol Vorderman responded with laughing emojis, while actress Alice Evans wrote, “You absolutely ROCK.” Another supporter commented, “Can’t believe the amount of hate you get for this incredible content. Keep fighting the good fight.”

In a separate post, James addressed another controversial topic – her decision to travel alone during Easter while her children stayed with their father and grandparents in France. Responding to criticisms about leaving her children, she wrote, “In my eyes, filling my own cup makes me a better mum. And I always wonder why society expects mums to be all sacrificing.”

She noted the double standard between how people view fathers versus mothers who take time for themselves: “Whenever Tommy goes away, no one questions him. They don’t ask who’s looking after the kids or question his commitment. And yet when I go away, it’s always questioned.”

James explained that solo travel has historically been important for her self-development, helping her learn to be happy independently before she had a family. She emphasized that taking time alone isn’t about “escaping” her life but rather “reconnecting with that part of me.”

“Mums aren’t robots. We can be self-sacrificing, but sometimes we need things for ourselves too – and we shouldn’t feel guilt for that,” she concluded. “So some say it’s selfish, but I say it’s selfless.”

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions around religious expression, political divisions, and societal expectations of motherhood that continue to provoke strong reactions on social media.