Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, shoes were more than mere articles of clothing; they often carried symbolic significance. One such symbolism is found in the act of throwing shoes over a place, which can denote subjection or dominion. This practice is rooted in ancient Near Eastern customs and is reflected in several biblical passages.The act of casting a shoe over a territory is mentioned in Psalm 60:8 and Psalm 108:9, where God declares, "Over Edom I will cast My shoe." In these contexts, the casting of a shoe signifies God's dominion and authority over the land of Edom. The imagery suggests a transfer of power or ownership, indicating that the land is under the control and subjection of the one who casts the shoe. In the ancient world, shoes were often associated with one's journey or path, symbolizing authority and possession. To remove one's shoe and throw it over a place was a symbolic act of claiming or asserting dominance over that area. This act could be seen as a declaration of conquest or a demonstration of superiority. The cultural background of this symbolism can be traced to the customs of the time, where removing one's shoe was a sign of relinquishing rights or transferring authority. For instance, in the book of Ruth, the removal of a sandal was part of a legal transaction to confirm the redemption and transfer of property (Ruth 4:7). Similarly, the casting of a shoe over a place can be understood as a symbolic gesture of asserting control or subjugation. In a broader theological context, the imagery of shoes and subjection can be seen as a reflection of God's sovereignty over the nations. The act of casting a shoe over a place serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the subjection of all creation to His will. It underscores the biblical theme of divine kingship and the establishment of God's kingdom over the earth. In conclusion, the biblical symbolism of throwing shoes over a place as an act of subjection highlights themes of authority, dominion, and divine sovereignty. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's control over the nations and His rightful claim to all creation. As believers reflect on these passages, they are called to recognize and submit to God's supreme authority in their own lives and in the world around them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 60:8Moab is my wash pot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe: Philistia, triumph you because of me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 108:9 Library John i. 15 Rom. viii. 12, 13 Introductory Note to the Works of Origen. Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. On the Departure of Flavian, Bishop of Antioch, who was Gone on an ... Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Bit and Bridle: How to Escape Them Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: A Case of Conscience Resolved Resources What is the readiness of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean when it refers to holy ground? | GotQuestions.org Who was D. L. Moody? | GotQuestions.org Shoes: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shoes of Israel Preserved for Forty Years, While Journeying in The Shoes of Ladies of Distinction: Often Highly Ornamental Shoes of Ladies of Distinction: Often Made of Badgers' Skins Shoes of Ladies of Distinction: Probably often Adorned With Tinkling Ornaments Shoes of the Beauty Conferred on Saints Shoes of the Preparation of the Gospel Shoes: (Having Blood On) of Being Engaged in War and Slaughter Shoes: (Taken off) an Ignominious and Servile Condition Shoes: (Thrown Over a Place) Subjection Shoes: Bearing, for Another a Degrading office, Only Performed By Shoes: Bound Round the Feet With Latchets or Strings Shoes: Customs Connected With: A Man Who Refused to Marry a Deceased Brother's Wife Shoes: Customs Connected With: The Right of Redemption Resigned by a Man's Giving One of Shoes: Loosing of, for Another a Degrading office Shoes: Soles of, Sometimes Plated With Brass or Iron Shoes: The Apostles Prohibited from Taking for Their Journey More, Shoes: The Jews: Never Wore, in Mourning Shoes: The Jews: Put off, when They Entered Sacred Places Shoes: The Jews: Put On, Before Beginning a Journey Shoes: Worn out by a Long Journey Related Terms |