Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the act of removing one's shoes in the presence of holy ground is a significant gesture of reverence and humility before God. This practice is most notably illustrated in the encounters of Moses and Joshua with the divine presence.Moses and the Burning Bush The first and most prominent instance of this practice is found in the account of Moses at the burning bush. In Exodus 3:5 , God speaks to Moses from the midst of the bush, saying, "Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground." This command signifies the sanctity of the location, as it is the dwelling place of God's presence. The removal of sandals is an acknowledgment of human unworthiness and the need for purity when approaching the divine. The context of this event is crucial. Moses, tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, encounters the burning bush on Mount Horeb, also known as the mountain of God. The divine instruction to remove his sandals underscores the transformation of an ordinary location into a sacred space due to God's presence. This act of removing footwear is a physical manifestation of Moses' submission and respect for God's holiness. Joshua and the Commander of the LORD's Army A similar event occurs in the book of Joshua. As Joshua prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, he encounters the commander of the LORD's army. In Joshua 5:15 , the commander instructs Joshua, "Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy." Joshua complies, demonstrating his recognition of the divine authority and the sanctity of the moment. This encounter takes place near Jericho, just before the Israelites' conquest of the city. The command to remove sandals serves as a reminder of God's presence and the need for reverence as the Israelites embark on their divinely ordained mission. It also parallels Moses' experience, linking Joshua's leadership to the foundational events of the Exodus. Symbolism and Significance The act of removing shoes in these contexts is rich with symbolism. In ancient Near Eastern culture, shoes often carried the dust and impurities of the world. Removing them was a way to show respect and to avoid defiling a sacred space. It is an outward expression of an inward attitude of humility and reverence. Furthermore, the removal of shoes can be seen as a metaphor for the stripping away of earthly concerns and distractions, allowing the individual to focus solely on the divine encounter. It signifies a readiness to listen and obey God's commands, as both Moses and Joshua were called to do. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, these narratives emphasize the holiness of God and the appropriate human response to His presence. The command to remove shoes highlights the distinction between the divine and the mundane, reminding believers of the need for purity and reverence in worship. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's transcendence and the respect due to Him. In the broader biblical context, these accounts foreshadow the ultimate revelation of God's holiness in the person of Jesus Christ. The call to approach God with humility and reverence remains a central tenet of Christian faith, encouraging believers to recognize the sacredness of God's presence in their lives. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 3:5And he said, Draw not near here: put off your shoes from off your feet, for the place where on you stand is holy ground. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 5:15 Acts 7:33 Library While Still Very Young, He Taught Diligently the Word of Christ. Oration on the Holy Lights. A Discourse of the Building, Nature, Excellency, and Government of ... The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Not that Light, but a Witness. The Church. Matt. Iii. 7 Appendix xvii. The Ordinances and Law of the Sabbath as Laid Down ... Christ Teaching Humility Pride and Humility Resources Who was D. L. Moody? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Euthyphro's Dilemma? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean for something to be amoral? What is amorality? | GotQuestions.org Shoe: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shoe of the People of Israel did not Get Old Shoe: Loosened As a Sign of Refusal to Observe the Levirate Marriage Shoe: Loosing of, a Humble Service Shoe: Made of Badgers' (Dugong, Porpoise?) Skins Shoe: Poor People Sold for a Pair of Shoe: Removed While on Holy Ground Shoe: Taken off at a Time of Mourning Related Terms |