Topical Bible: Entertainments: Guests At: had Their Feet Washed when They Came a Distance

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, the act of washing a guest's feet was a significant gesture of hospitality and respect. This practice is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, reflecting the customs of the ancient Near East, where travel was often done on foot over dusty and rugged terrain. The washing of feet was not only a practical necessity but also a symbol of welcome and honor.

Biblical Instances and Significance

1. Abraham's Hospitality: One of the earliest references to foot washing as a form of hospitality is found in the account of Abraham. In Genesis 18:4 , when three visitors came to Abraham, he said, "Let a little water be brought, that you may wash your feet and rest yourselves under the tree." This act demonstrated Abraham's eagerness to serve and honor his guests, providing them comfort after their journey.

2. Lot's Welcome: Similarly, Lot, Abraham's nephew, extended this courtesy to the angels who visited him in Sodom. In Genesis 19:2 , Lot said, "Please, my lords, turn aside into your servant’s house. You can wash your feet and spend the night and then go on your way early in the morning." This gesture was part of the broader hospitality Lot offered, emphasizing the importance of caring for travelers.

3. Jesus and the Disciples: In the New Testament, the act of foot washing takes on a profound spiritual significance. In John 13:5 , during the Last Supper, Jesus "poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to dry them with the towel that was wrapped around Him." This act was a demonstration of humility and servanthood, setting an example for His followers to serve one another selflessly.

4. Cultural Context: Foot washing was typically performed by servants or the host's household members, as it was considered a menial task. However, when performed by the host or a person of higher status, it conveyed deep respect and humility. The act was a tangible expression of care, ensuring that guests were refreshed and comfortable.

5. Symbolism and Teaching: Beyond its practical application, foot washing in the Bible often symbolizes purification and readiness to enter into fellowship. It serves as a metaphor for spiritual cleansing and the humility required to serve others. Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet is particularly instructive, as it underscores the call to love and serve one another, regardless of status or position.

Conclusion

The practice of washing guests' feet in biblical times was a multifaceted tradition that encompassed hospitality, humility, and spiritual symbolism. It highlighted the importance of serving others and providing for their needs, reflecting the values of kindness and respect that are central to biblical teachings.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 18:4
Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 43:24
And the man brought the men into Joseph's house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he gave their asses provender.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 7:38,44
And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
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Library

Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians.
... Guests, poor, are the best, [1617]374; great and rich ... 1667]384; rich man would have
escaped had he feared ... works, but without a reward, [1672]191; their way of ...
/.../homilies on philippians colossians and.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... hunting expeditions, his banquets, and entertainments in the ... prepared a sacrifice,
He hath sanctified His guests.". ... families in which the faith had been handed ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... strong in little time upon my spirit, that had I but ... the love I did bear unto them,
supposing they were the ... God, I could have lain down at their feet, and have ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

part ii
... people of His priests, invested with His grace, has mercy even upon the unworthy,
as He had mercy upon ... Because through their mutual love they feel as ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

part i
... out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus ... had been taken
away from us, as though they had been new ... Who gives them their wonderful forms ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm