Bible Verses About Shoes

From the dusty sandals of wandering prophets to the footwear instructions given by God Himself, references to shoes in Scripture reveal much about faith, humility, preparation, and even redemption.

The Symbolism of Shoes in the Bible

In ancient times, shoes represented status, preparation for a journey, and sometimes even one’s right to property or inheritance. Removing shoes could be a sign of reverence or humility, acknowledging the presence of God or a sacred space. The Bible uses shoes to communicate important spiritual truths, making them far more than a mere accessory.

Walking on Holy Ground: Exodus 3:5

One of the first notable references to shoes in the Bible comes from the story of Moses and the burning bush:

“Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” (Exodus 3:5, NIV)

Here, Moses encounters God in the wilderness. God’s instruction to remove his sandals is symbolic of entering a sacred space unencumbered and with humility. It’s a physical act that reflects an inner posture of reverence and awe. The removal of shoes indicates that Moses must leave behind the dust and defilement of the world, approaching God with pure intent. This practice is echoed elsewhere in Scripture, such as when Joshua also removes his sandals in the presence of the commander of the Lord’s army (Joshua 5:15).

Shoes and Redemption: Ruth 4:7-8

Shoes also played a role in ancient legal customs, particularly in the context of redemption and inheritance. In the story of Ruth, we learn about the custom of transferring property and the significance of removing a sandal:

“Now in earlier times in Israel, for the redemption and transfer of property to become final, one party took off his sandal and gave it to the other. This was the method of legalizing transactions in Israel. So the guardian-redeemer said to Boaz, ‘Buy it yourself.’ And he removed his sandal.” (Ruth 4:7-8, NIV)

This act was a public declaration of the transfer of rights, symbolizing that the new owner could now walk on the land as his own. The sandal thus becomes a symbol of redemption, inheritance, and the fulfillment of promises—echoing the greater redemption found in Christ.

The Preparation of the Gospel of Peace: Ephesians 6:15

In the New Testament, Paul uses the imagery of shoes to describe spiritual readiness:

“And with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” (Ephesians 6:15, NIV)

As part of the “armor of God,” spiritual shoes represent our preparedness to share the good news and to stand firm in our faith. Roman soldiers wore sturdy sandals to march long distances and maintain their footing in battle. Likewise, Christians are called to be ready to move forward in faith, advancing the gospel and standing strong against spiritual opposition. Our spiritual shoes equip us to walk confidently and peacefully, no matter the terrain.

The Prodigal Son: Restoration and Shoes

Another powerful reference to shoes in the Bible is found in the parable of the prodigal son:

“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.’” (Luke 15:22, NIV)

When the wayward son returns home, his father welcomes him not as a servant but as a beloved child. Placing sandals on his feet is significant because servants often went barefoot, while free men wore shoes. By giving him sandals, the father restores the son’s dignity, status, and identity. This beautiful act symbolizes God’s grace and the full restoration available to all who return to Him.

Going Barefoot: A Sign of Mourning and Humility

In certain contexts, going barefoot in the Bible is linked to mourning, humility, or repentance. For example, when King David flees Jerusalem during Absalom’s rebellion, he goes barefoot as a sign of grief:

“David continued up the Mount of Olives, weeping as he went; his head was covered and he was barefoot. All the people with him covered their heads too and were weeping as they went up.” (2 Samuel 15:30, NIV)

Similarly, the prophet Isaiah is instructed by God to go barefoot and naked as a sign against Egypt and Cush, symbolizing impending judgment and humiliation (Isaiah 20:2-4). These examples remind us that shoes, or the lack thereof, can reflect the state of our hearts—whether we come before God in pride or humility, in comfort or contrition.

John the Baptist: Not Worthy to Untie His Sandals

Shoes also appear in the ministry of John the Baptist, who uses them as a metaphor for the greatness of Christ:

“He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” (John 1:27, NIV)

In ancient culture, untying someone’s sandals was a servant’s task—the lowest of the low. John’s statement is a profound expression of humility, acknowledging the supremacy of Jesus. It’s a reminder that, no matter our calling or ministry, all honor and reverence belong to Christ alone.

Shoes and the Journey of Faith

Shoes are essential for any journey, and the Bible often uses the imagery of walking to describe our spiritual lives. Whether it’s the Israelites journeying through the wilderness, or Jesus sending out His disciples, footwear is a metaphor for readiness, perseverance, and reliance on God’s provision. In Deuteronomy, Moses reminds the Israelites of God’s faithfulness during their long journey:

“During the forty years that I led you through the wilderness, your clothes did not wear out, nor did the sandals on your feet.” (Deuteronomy 29:5, NIV)

God’s miraculous provision ensured that their shoes did not wear out, symbolizing His sustaining grace throughout life’s hardships. This verse encourages us to trust in God’s provision as we walk the path He sets before us.

Jesus Sends Out His Disciples: Travel Instructions

When Jesus sends out His disciples to preach and heal, He gives them specific instructions regarding their shoes:

“Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.” (Luke 10:4, NIV)

This directive emphasizes reliance on God and the hospitality of others. It also underscores the urgency and simplicity of their mission. By traveling light—even going barefoot—the disciples demonstrate trust in God’s care and focus on their purpose.

Feet Washed, Shoes Removed: Acts of Service

Though not always explicit, the washing of feet in biblical times was closely associated with shoes. Hosting guests often involved removing their sandals and washing their feet, a gesture of hospitality and servanthood. Jesus models this in John 13, though shoes are not directly mentioned:

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14, NIV)

The act of foot washing—removing the dust accumulated from travel—reminds us of our call to serve one another with humility and love.

Shoes in Prophecy: Beautiful Feet of the Messenger

The Bible also uses the image of feet (and by extension, shoes) to describe the beauty of those who bring good news:

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation.” (Isaiah 52:7, NIV)

This prophetic vision is echoed by Paul in Romans 10:15, emphasizing the honor and importance of those who share the message of salvation. The “beautiful feet” are those fitted with shoes ready to go wherever God sends them, spreading hope and peace.

Practical Lessons: What Shoes Teach Us About Faith

What can we learn from these biblical references to shoes? Here are a few practical lessons:

1. Approach God with Humility: Like Moses, we must recognize God’s holiness and come before Him with reverence, “removing our shoes” in humble surrender.
2. Prepare for the Journey: The gospel calls us to be ready to move, to share the good news, and to stand firm in faith. Our spiritual shoes equip us for whatever lies ahead.
3. Receive Restoration: Just as the prodigal son was given shoes as a sign of acceptance, God restores us and gives us a new identity as His children.
4. Trust in God’s Provision: Whether wandering in the wilderness or sent out on mission, we can trust that God will provide for our needs, even down to the shoes on our feet.
5. Serve Others with Love: The act of washing feet (and by implication, caring for shoes) reminds us to serve others selflessly and with humility.