Kathie Lee Gifford would be in an insane asylum without Jesus, but she can't stand religion.

Kathie Lee Gifford doesn't like religion, but she has a strong bond with Jesus.

Gifford told Planet Chronicle Digital that he cannot tolerate religion because it restricts individuals, and Jesus' mission is to liberate us from these constraints.

"Do you desire to remain in the same pew every week, listening to the same unchanging messages, or do you yearn for a living Creator who loves you and has a purpose for your life, and who only longs for you to share fellowship with Him? That is the only thing that truly matters to me."

Gifford has relied on her faith and connection with God during challenging moments, stating, "I couldn't have endured" without it.

Without Jesus, I would have been in an insane asylum," she stated. "My life has been filled with both hardships and blessings. However, my public struggles could have resulted in a long-term imprisonment and caused significant harm to my loved ones.

Kathie Lee Gifford reveals the reason behind her dislike of religion.

"When you go through difficult experiences, you tend to cling tighter. It's better to come to know God early in life and cling to him throughout. People often talk about coming to God in a foxhole, but the best thing is to come to know him early on and hold onto him throughout life."

"Religion puts people in chains. And Jesus comes to set us free."  — Kathie Lee Gifford

For many years, the 71-year-old has been deeply devoted to studying the Bible, even sacrificing her high school prom and graduation to attend a conference in Israel focused on biblical prophecy.

"Now that I've learned so much, I'm much more annoying," she joked.

But studying was important to her.

"Numerous poor translations of the Bible exist, and if you study a bad translation, you won't gain any knowledge that will strengthen your faith or empower your life. Many churches rely on these translations, and they thrive on them. To grow, you must consume them. The scripture states that people perish due to a lack of knowledge, and I was one of them."

Gifford's research on Greek and Hebrew teachings led her to write a book about King Herod and Mary, the mother of Jesus.

"She remembered how much she learned about Herod and returned, telling her son to get her every book on the subject. She said, 'Cody, if Jesus is the greatest story ever told, Herod is one of the greatest stories never, ever told.'"

Cody persuaded his mother to transform her original film idea into a written story and introduced her to Dr. Bryan M. Litfin, a Ph.D. in ancient Christianity from the University of Virginia, who became her co-writer.

The "Today" host stated that the story is essentially a thriller, with the underlying concept that "evil has always existed."

"The world today is characterized by a greater sense of fear, with even those who have wealth, security, and protection feeling afraid. This fear has intensified due to the chaotic and senseless nature of the world, making it the most prevalent emotion now more than ever before."

Kathie Lee Gifford discusses the inspiring Bible stories that influenced her latest book.

Studying the Bible not only provides comfort but also entertainment.

The Bible contains numerous dramatic, betrayal, and bestiality stories, which people often overlook. However, if they read it, they would discover its incredible depth and richness. I have spent my entire life studying the Bible, and it has been a fascinating journey.

"We cite every source in our story that is not directly from scripture. We did not invent anything. We simply aimed to accurately reflect what is supported by church history. As a result, people may say, "This is not the Bible." However, we did not claim it was, and we hope you understand. Do you want a good story or not?"

Just days before undergoing hip surgery, the former "Today" host recorded the audiobook edition of "Herod and Mary."

Unfortunately, while recovering from her injury, she also fell and fractured her pelvis due to her carelessness while descending the stairs.

Gifford remembered how she moved 300 books for a couple of hours to prepare for a signing, thinking she was stronger than she actually was. The next day, while rushing to meet her friend, she fell and broke her pelvis in two places.

"Whatever you want. The Bible's got it." — Kathie Lee Gifford

After eight days in the hospital, Gifford was walking and putting weight on her leg faster than expected, following physical therapy.

She spoke with her doctor, who she described as a devout man of God, shortly after the injury, inquiring about the lack of excruciating pain despite not using painkillers.

Kathie Lee Gifford claims that she would be in an insane asylum without Jesus.

He pointed out her new hip and pelvis on the X-ray, and she noted they were "perfect." He then confirmed, "Exactly."

"He informed her that she was fully healed by God's grace and that she could now enjoy a glass of wine."

Gifford was interviewed by Planet Chronicle Digital prior to the announcement of Hoda Kotb's retirement from "Today."

The book 'Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior' is now available.