Topical Bible: The Feet: Subjection Expressed by Licking the Dust of

◄ The Feet: Subjection Expressed by Licking the Dust of ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical literature, the act of licking the dust of someone's feet is a vivid metaphor for subjection, humiliation, and submission. This imagery is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, where physical gestures often conveyed social hierarchies and power dynamics.

Biblical References

The concept of licking the dust as a sign of subjugation is notably mentioned in the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 49:23 , the prophet speaks of a future time when kings and queens will bow down to the people of Israel: "Kings will be your foster fathers, and their queens your nursing mothers. They will bow down to you with their faces to the ground and lick the dust at your feet. Then you will know that I am the LORD; those who hope in Me will never be put to shame." This passage highlights the reversal of fortunes where the powerful and mighty are brought low before God's chosen people, symbolizing divine vindication and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes.

Similarly, in Micah 7:17 , the prophet describes the nations coming in fear and submission before the Lord: "They will lick the dust like a snake, like creatures that crawl on the ground. They will come trembling out of their dens; they will turn in fear to the LORD our God and will be afraid of you." Here, the imagery of licking the dust is associated with the humbling of nations before the sovereignty of God, emphasizing His supreme authority and the futility of opposing His will.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient world, the feet were often considered the lowest and most unclean part of the body. To be at someone's feet was to be in a position of inferiority and servitude. The act of licking the dust from someone's feet would thus represent the utmost degree of abasement and acknowledgment of one's lower status. This gesture would be performed by a defeated enemy or a subjugated people, symbolizing their complete surrender and recognition of the victor's dominance.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the imagery of licking the dust at someone's feet underscores the theme of divine justice and the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom. It serves as a powerful reminder of the eschatological hope that the enemies of God and His people will be humbled and that righteousness will prevail. This motif also reflects the biblical principle that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted (cf. Matthew 23:12).

In the broader narrative of Scripture, the act of licking the dust is not merely about human power dynamics but points to the greater reality of God's sovereign rule over all creation. It reassures believers of the certainty of God's promises and the eventual fulfillment of His redemptive plan, where all creation will acknowledge His lordship.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 49:23
And kings shall be your nursing fathers, and their queens your nursing mothers: they shall bow down to you with their face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of your feet; and you shall know that I am the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.
Torrey's Topical Textbook