Bible Dictionary
Footstool
A footstool is a support placed before a throne or elevated seat. Figuratively, Scripture calls the earth, the ark or temple, and subdued enemies God’s footstool, signifying divine rule and subjection.
Definition
A footstool is a step or support placed before a throne or other elevated seat. In Scripture, the term also serves as a symbolic expression for what is beneath a ruler’s feet and therefore subject to his authority.
Biblical Usage
The earth is called God’s footstool, while the ark and temple are associated with His symbolic dwelling. The enemies of the Messianic King are likewise pictured as a footstool beneath His feet. These uses signify divine lordship and the subjection of all things to God and His Son.
Historical Background
Literal footstools were used before thrones or pretentious seats. The term occurs in both literal and figurative senses, with most biblical references using the image symbolically.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Connected with a throne (2 Chr. 9:18). Jehovah symbolically dwelt in the holy place between the cherubim above the ark of the covenant. The ark was his footstool (1 Chr. 28:2; Ps. 99:5; 132:7). And as heaven is God’s throne, so the earth is his footstool (Ps. 110:1; Isa. 66:1; Matt. 5:35).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>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: 2Ch 9:18 and Jas 2:3. In these the footstool was a sort of step or support for the feet placed before the throne or any pretentious seat.</p><p>Of figurative uses, there are the following groups:</p><p>(1) Of the earth: Isa 66:1; Mt 5:35; Ac 7:49.</p><p>(2) Of the ark: 1Ch 28:2.</p><p>(3) Of the Temple: Ps 99:5; 132:7; La 2:1; compare Isa 60:13.</p><p>(4) Of heathen enemies subdued by the Messianic King: Ps 110:1; Mt 22:44 the King James Version; Mr 12:36; Lu 20:43; Ac 2:35; Heb 1:13; 10:13.</p><p>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 1Co 15:25-27, in which all things, including death, are represented as subject to Christ and placed beneath His feet.</p><p>Leonard W. Doolan</p>