In The Handmaid's Tale, religion is a central theme that underpins the dystopian society of Gilead. The theocratic regime uses religion as a tool for control, manipulating biblical texts to justify its oppressive rules and societal structures. This misuse of religion highlights the dangers of intertwining state power with religious doctrine, leading to the subjugation of individuals, particularly women, under the guise of divine will.

The Wall is a stark symbol of Gilead's religious tyranny. It is where the bodies of those deemed violators of Christian moral norms are displayed. These executions serve as a public warning to maintain control through fear. Offred observes, "

It doesn’t matter if we look. We’re supposed to look: this is what they are there for, hanging on the Wall.

" The Wall represents the physical and ideological barriers that confine Offred and others, emphasizing the claustrophobic environment enforced by religious dogma.

Religion in Gilead is manipulated to serve the desires of those in power. The state merges government and religious beliefs, creating a society where women like Offred are enslaved for reproduction. The novel warns against the gradual erosion of civil liberties, as Offred recalls her mother's words: "Humanity is so adaptable...Truly amazing, what people can get used to, as long as there are a few compensations." This reflects how society's complacency allowed Gilead's oppressive regime to rise.

The characters of the Commander and Aunt Lydia further illustrate the theme of religious manipulation. The Commander, despite leading prayers, does not adhere to the moral or religious codes he enforces, as seen in his secretive and hypocritical actions. Aunt Lydia, on the other hand, equates religion with morality, believing her actions are justified by divine authority. She uses religion to rationalize the harsh treatment of women, claiming it aligns with a higher moral purpose. However, her actions reveal the cruelty and deceit inherent in Gilead's religious extremism.