[TheRealThing]

Ive never seen anyone place their hand on a bible in court.

You just raise your hand.
And no, the bible is NOT the ultimate authority. The church (actually, The Holy Father). (see how different beliefs arise from the SAME religion? thats the catholic view. you give the protestant view.)

Like the good quote goes, "The religious right.... are neither."

Not always. Does the president of the US place his hand on the bible when he swears to uphold the constitution? Why would he do this? BECAUSE IT'S THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY to swear by.