As far back as the days of Abram in Genesis 14:23 (around 1800 BC—not an exact number but when you live for 175 years—who’s counting?), sandals may be found in the Bible. In colder climates, feet could be wrapped with rags to keep them warm. In warmer climates, people often went barefoot, even the pharaohs who wore sandals only outside.
Archaeologically, sandals turn up in Near Eastern digs. This photo shows painted wooden sandals from Egypt, ca. 2000 BC. Similar styles, crafted out of leather, have been found dating from the time of the 70 AD revolt on Masada.
Depending on the reference, feet were honored as beautiful facilitators in spreading good news (Isaiah 52:7), or as lowly, dusty and dirty. “John answered and said to them all, ‘As for me, I baptize you with water; but One is coming who is mightier than I, and I am not fit to untie the thong of His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire’” (Luke 3:16).
It’s the Holy Spirit of God, the Ruach Ha’Kodesh, who transforms and recreates us from dirty to beautiful, able to bear his good news that Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah has come! Put on your sandals and head out to share wherever he leads you today.
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