Topical Bible: The Feet were Liable to Injury from Stones

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the terrain was often rugged and uneven, making the feet particularly susceptible to injury from stones. This vulnerability is reflected in various biblical passages and cultural practices of the time. The feet, being the primary means of transportation, were exposed to the harsh elements and rough paths, necessitating divine protection and care.

Biblical References

The Bible frequently alludes to the dangers posed by stones and rough paths. In Psalm 91:12 , it is written, "They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." This verse highlights the protective role of angels, ensuring that the faithful are safeguarded from physical harm, including injuries to the feet caused by stones.

Similarly, Proverbs 3:23 states, "Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble." This passage underscores the importance of divine wisdom and guidance in navigating life's treacherous paths, both literal and metaphorical.

Cultural Practices

In biblical times, sandals were the common footwear, offering minimal protection against the rocky terrain. The construction of roads and paths was rudimentary, often consisting of loose stones and uneven surfaces. As a result, injuries to the feet were a common concern, and travelers had to be vigilant.

The practice of washing feet, as seen in Genesis 18:4 and John 13:5 , was not only a gesture of hospitality but also a practical measure to cleanse and soothe feet that had been exposed to dust and potential injury. This act of washing was a sign of care and respect, acknowledging the weariness and vulnerability of travelers.

Spiritual Symbolism

The susceptibility of feet to injury from stones also carries spiritual symbolism in the Bible. The journey of faith is often likened to a walk, with believers encouraged to remain steadfast and vigilant. Ephesians 6:15 speaks of having "your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace," suggesting that spiritual preparedness can protect one from stumbling in the faith.

Moreover, the imagery of feet being kept from harm is a metaphor for divine protection and guidance. Psalm 121:3 assures, "He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber." This promise of protection extends beyond physical safety to encompass spiritual security, emphasizing God's constant vigilance over His people.

Conclusion

The biblical emphasis on the vulnerability of feet to injury from stones serves as a reminder of the need for divine protection and guidance in both physical and spiritual journeys. Through the imagery of feet and paths, the Scriptures convey profound truths about reliance on God and the assurance of His care.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 91:12
They shall bear you up in their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Concerning the Tabernacle which Moses Built in the Wilderness for ...
... Upon every one of the feet was there also inserted a ring ... of the same wood of which
the foregoing vessels were made, such as was not liable to corruption ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 concerning the tabernacle.htm

A Compendious view of the Christian Life.
... cut round, not by the razor, for that were not well ... to be gave, but renders the cranium
less liable to injury ... For the feet of folly lead those who practice it to ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter xi a compendious view of.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... a matter of supreme importance would be liable to be ... hinges, which turned upon two
blackish stones firmly set ... The feet were shod with sandals, a tight-fitting ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

The Unmerciful Servant.
... And his fellow-servant fell down at his feet, and besought ... that is insignificant
in itself, and liable to be ... them in its true magnitude, they were brought to a ...
/.../arnot/the parables of our lord/viii the unmerciful servant.htm

Book ii.
... think of those we loved rather as liable to punishment ... closed eyes, directs his steps
with bound feet, and moves ... gave a hand to those who were rising, showed ...
//christianbookshelf.org/ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/book ii.htm

The Transformation of Rome from a Pagan into a Christian City.
... designed in blue marble, were 666 feet long; and ... There were also private horrea,
built on speculation, to ... his lease, shall be considered as liable for another ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter i the transformation of.htm

The Allies of the Tempter.
... of youthful pleasure and natural joy, the feet of men ... go much too fast, and renders
them liable to strike ... Justice and Benevolence, speaking as it were by the ...
/.../chapin/humanity in the city/discourse vi the allies of.htm

From the Latin Translation of Cassiodorus.
... the help of tools; in his naked state liable to become ... "And put shoes on his feet,"
for "the ... was situated the table on which the loaves were displayed, because ...
/.../who is the rich man that shall be saved/i from the latin translation of.htm

Later English Reformers.
... was that of seeking to turn the feet of sinners ... of piety and virtue," while those
who were doomed to ... time or place, or any other circumstances liable to change ...
/.../the great controversy between christ and satan /14 later english reformers.htm

Later English Reformers
... was that of seeking to turn the feet of sinners ... of piety and virtue," while those
who were doomed to ... time or place, or any other circumstances liable to change ...
/.../white/the great controversy/chapter 14 later english reformers.htm