Footstool

Footstool - (Easton's Bible Dictionary)

Connected with a throne (2 Chr. 9:18). Jehovah symbolically dwelt in the holy place between the cherubim above the ark of the covenant. The ark was his footstool (1 Chr. 28:2; Ps. 99:5; 132:7). And as heaven is God's throne, so the earth is his footstool (Ps. 110:1; Isa. 66:1; Matt. 5:35).

Footstool - (Webster's 1828 Dictionary)

FOOT'STOOL, n. A stool for the feet; that which supports the feet of one when sitting.

To make enemies a footstool, is to reduce them to entire subjection. Psa 110.

foot'-stool (kebhes; hupopodion, "trodden on"): The 15 Scripture references to this term may be classified as literal or figurative. Of the former are the two passages: 2Ch 9:18 and Jas 2:3. In these the footstool was a sort of step or support for the feet placed before the throne or any pretentious seat.

Of figurative uses, there are the following groups:

(1) Of the earth: Isa 66:1; Mt 5:35; Ac 7:49.

(2) Of the ark: 1Ch 28:2.

(3) Of the Temple: Ps 99:5; 132:7; La 2:1; compare Isa 60:13.

(4) Of heathen enemies subdued by the Messianic King: Ps 110:1; Mt 22:44 the King James Version; Mr 12:36; Lu 20:43; Ac 2:35; Heb 1:13; 10:13.

Thus the uses of this term are mainly metaphorical and symbolic of subjection, either to God as universal Lord or to God's Son as King by redemptive right. Compare 1Co 15:25-27, in which all things, including death, are represented as subject to Christ and placed beneath His feet.

Leonard W. Doolan

Definition

The term “footstool” refers to an object which a person puts his feet on, usually to rest them while sitting. This term also has figurative meanings of submission and lower status.

• People in Bible times considered feet to be the least honorable parts of the body. So a “footstool” was of even lower honor because feet were rested on it.
• When God says “I will make my enemies a footstool for my feet” he is declaring power, control, and victory over the people who rebel against him. They will be humbled and conquered to the point of submitting to God’s will.
• To “worship at God’s footstool” means to bow down in worship before him as he sits on his throne. This again communicates humility and submission to God.
• David refers to the temple as God’s “footstool.” This could refer to his absolute authority over his people. This could also be picturing God the King on his throne, with his feet resting on his footstool, which represents all that is in submission to him.

Bible References

• Acts 7:49
• Isaiah 66:1
• Luke 20:43
• Matthew 5:35
• Matthew 22:44
• Psalm 110:1

Word Data

• Strong’s: H1916, H3534, H7272, G42280, G52860