Topical Encyclopedia The term "unsandaled" refers to the act of removing one's sandals, a practice that holds significant cultural and symbolic meaning in the biblical context. In ancient Israel, sandals were a common form of footwear, and their removal often signified respect, humility, or the relinquishment of rights.Cultural and Symbolic Significance 1. Holy Ground: One of the most notable instances of removing sandals is found in the encounter between Moses and God at the burning bush. In Exodus 3:5 , God commands Moses, "Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground." This act of unsandaling signifies reverence and the acknowledgment of God's holy presence. Similarly, Joshua is instructed to remove his sandals in Joshua 5:15 , "The Commander of the LORD’s army replied, 'Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.' And Joshua did so." 2. Levirate Marriage: The practice of removing a sandal also appears in the context of levirate marriage, as described in Deuteronomy 25:5-10. If a man died without leaving a son, his brother was expected to marry the widow to produce offspring in the deceased brother's name. If the brother refused, the widow was to go to the elders at the city gate and declare his refusal. The elders would then summon the brother, and if he persisted in his refusal, the widow would remove his sandal and spit in his face. This act symbolized the brother's relinquishment of his duty and the shame associated with it. Deuteronomy 25:9 states, "Then his brother’s widow shall go up to him in the presence of the elders, remove his sandal from his foot, spit in his face, and declare, 'This is what is done to the man who will not build up his brother’s house.'" 3. Transfer of Property: The removal of a sandal also served as a legal gesture in transactions, particularly in the transfer of property or rights. In the book of Ruth, Boaz redeems the land of Naomi and marries Ruth. The custom of removing a sandal is mentioned in Ruth 4:7 , "Now in former times in Israel, concerning the redemption and exchange of property, to confirm any matter, a man would remove his sandal and give it to the other party. This was a method of legalizing transactions in Israel." This act symbolized the transfer of rights and responsibilities from one party to another. Theological Implications The act of unsandaling in the biblical narrative underscores themes of humility, obedience, and the acknowledgment of divine authority. It serves as a physical manifestation of spiritual truths, reminding believers of the importance of reverence before God and the fulfillment of one's duties within the community. The removal of sandals, whether in the presence of God or in legal and familial contexts, highlights the significance of submission and the relinquishment of personal rights for the greater good. In summary, the concept of being "unsandaled" in the Bible carries deep cultural and theological meanings, reflecting the values and practices of ancient Israelite society and offering insights into the spiritual principles that continue to resonate with believers today. Library Ephesians iv. 17-19 Thesaurus Unsandaled (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Unsandaled (1 Occurrence). Deuteronomy 25:10 His name shall be called in Israel, The house of him who has his shoe untied. (See NIV). ... /u/unsandaled.htm - 6k Unsalty (1 Occurrence) Unsatiable (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Unsandaled (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 25:10 Subtopics Related Terms |