In biblical literature, the concept of a "footstool" is often used metaphorically to describe the relationship between God and His creation, particularly in the context of His sovereignty and the sanctity of His dwelling place. The term "footstool" is frequently associated with the sanctuary, the holy place where God's presence is manifest among His people.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The imagery of a footstool is first introduced in the context of God's majesty and authority. In Isaiah 66:1 , the Lord declares, "Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool." This passage emphasizes God's transcendence and the earth's subservient position under His dominion. The footstool here symbolizes the earth as a place under God's sovereign rule, highlighting His omnipotence and the reverence due to Him.

In the context of the sanctuary, the footstool takes on a more specific meaning. The Ark of the Covenant, located in the Holy of Holies within the Tabernacle and later the Temple, is often referred to as God's footstool. In 1 Chronicles 28:2 , King David says, "I had it in my heart to build a house of rest for the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD, for the footstool of our God." Here, the footstool represents the tangible presence of God among His people, a sacred space where heaven and earth meet.

Theological Implications

The use of the footstool imagery in relation to the sanctuary underscores the holiness of God's dwelling place. It serves as a reminder of the need for purity and reverence when approaching God. The sanctuary, as God's footstool, is a place set apart for worship and communion with the Divine. This concept is further reinforced in Psalm 99:5 , which exhorts believers to "Exalt the LORD our God and worship at His footstool; He is holy!"

The footstool also signifies the eschatological hope of God's ultimate reign. In Psalm 110:1 , a Messianic psalm, the LORD says to the Messiah, "Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet." This prophecy points to the future subjugation of all opposition to God's kingdom, culminating in the Messiah's victorious reign.

Worship and Reverence

The concept of the footstool in the sanctuary context calls believers to a posture of humility and worship. Recognizing the sanctuary as God's footstool invites the faithful to approach with awe and submission, acknowledging His supreme authority and the privilege of being in His presence. The footstool imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the sacredness of worship and the honor of being invited into God's holy space.

In summary, the biblical use of "footstool" in relation to the sanctuary conveys themes of divine sovereignty, holiness, and the anticipated fulfillment of God's kingdom. It invites believers to a deeper understanding of God's majesty and the reverence due to Him in worship.Psalm 99:5
Exalt you the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy.
Nave's Topical Index

Psalm 132:7
We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool.
Nave's Topical Index

The Genuine Acts of Peter.
... endeavouring to carry him to the sanctuary of the ... his pontifical throne, but upon
its footstool underneath, which ... and again took his seat upon the same stool. ...
/.../peter/the writings of peter of alexandria/the genuine acts of peter.htm

Distinguishing Grace
... and make us humbly bow before the footstool of God's ... Who has led you to the stool
of the penitent and ... were once in the midst of God's sanctuary, have become ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/distinguishing grace.htm

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