Footstool

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: 2 Chronicles 9:18 and James 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:

Isaiah 66:1; Matthew 5:35; Acts 7:49.

(2) Of the ark:

1 Chronicles 28:2.

(3) Of the Temple:

Psalms 99:5; 132:7; Lamentations 2:1; compare Isaiah 60:13.

(4) Of heathen enemies subdued by the Messianic King:

Psalms 110:1; Matthew 22:44 the King James Version; Mark 12:36; Luke 20:43; Acts 2:35; Hebrews 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 1 Corinthians 15:25-27, in which all things, including death, are represented as subject to Christ and placed beneath His feet.

Leonard W. Doolan