Bible Dictionary

A Visit With Jesus
 Clear

Barefoot

Jewish Life & Customs • Both
Going barefoot could express mourning, distress, humiliation, or calamity. Removing shoes was also associated with reverence on holy ground and with certain ancient worship practices.
Biblical Usage
David went barefoot while fleeing from Absalom as a sign of grief, and Isaiah’s bare feet symbolized the forlorn condition of captives. Moses and Joshua were commanded to remove their shoes on holy ground.
Scripture References
Isaiah 20:2 Isaiah 20:3 Isaiah 20:4 2 Samuel 15:30