Dictionary of Bible Themes A form of open shoe worn in warm climates, and the only form of foot-covering to be of major importance in Scripture. Both the wearing and the removal of sandals is often seen as symbolic; to go barefoot was often a sign of shame, mourning or poverty. 1 Kings 2:5Sandals were normally worn by an official, soldier or messenger Ephesians 6:15Matthew 3:11 Untying and carrying sandals was the task of a servant pp Mk 1:7 pp Lk 3:16 See also pp Jn 1:27 Acts 13:25John considers himself unworthy even to be a slave of Jesus Christ. Exodus 3:5The removal of sandals as a gesture See also As a mark of respect in the presence of God Joshua 5:15Acts 7:33 Deuteronomy 25:9-10 Ruth 4:7-8 To show rejection of any claim to property Psalms 60:8Isaiah 20:2-4 pp Ps 108:9 To predict the defeat and disgrace of Egypt and Assyria 2 Samuel 15:30Ezekiel 24:17,23 As a sign of mourning and repentance Micah 1:8Exodus 12:11 The symbolic use of sandals As symbols of readiness for action See also Amos 2:6; 8:6As symbols of oppression and injustice Ezekiel 16:10Luke 15:22 Fine sandals as a status symbol Matthew 10:10Sandals as an example of the need for minimum possessions in God's service Luke 22:35pp Mk 6:9 See also pp Lk 10:4 5145 clothing5152 fingers 5197 walking |
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