### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypódēma**, represented by `{{G5266}}`, is defined as something bound under the feet, i.e. a **shoe** or sandal. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used not only for literal footwear but also as a powerful symbol of status, humility, and reverence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5266}}` is used in several key contexts. Its most frequent use is by John the Baptist to express his profound unworthiness compared to the Messiah, stating he is not worthy to bear or unloose his **shoes** ([[Matthew 3:11]]; [[Mark 1:7]]). The term is also used in Jesus's instructions to His disciples, telling them to carry no extra **shoes** on their journey, emphasizing reliance on God's provision ([[Matthew 10:10]]; [[Luke 10:4]]). Conversely, receiving **shoes** signifies restoration to a place of honor, as when the prodigal son is given them by his father [[Luke 15:22]]. It is also an object to be removed in a holy place as an act of reverence [[Acts 7:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the contexts in which **shoes** are mentioned:
* `{{G2438}}` **himás** (latchet): This word, meaning a "strap... or the tie (of a sandal)," is directly linked to `{{G5266}}` in passages where John the Baptist speaks of being unworthy to unloose the Messiah's shoe **latchet** [[John 1:27]].
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (to "loosen"): This verb is used to describe the action of unfastening footwear. It appears in the context of John the Baptist's humility [[Luke 3:16]] and also in the divine command to **put off** shoes on holy ground [[Acts 7:33]].
* `{{G4228}}` **poús** (foot): As the word for **foot**, it is naturally associated with `{{G5266}}`. **Shoes** are given to be put on the **feet** as a sign of sonship [[Luke 15:22]], and one's **shoes** must be loosed from the **feet** in a sacred space [[Acts 7:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5266}}` is revealed through its symbolic usage.
* **Humility and Servitude:** The act of bearing or unloosing another’s **shoes** was a task for the lowest servant. John the Baptist uses this imagery to contrast his own position with the supreme authority of Christ ([[Matthew 3:11]]; [[Acts 13:25]]).
* **Status and Provision:** The presence or absence of **shoes** often indicates one's standing and source of provision. Disciples were sent without them to learn dependence on God [[Luke 22:35]], while the prodigal son receives them as a mark of his restored sonship [[Luke 15:22]].
* **Reverence in God's Presence:** Removing one's **shoes** is a gesture of respect and awe before the holy. This is demonstrated in the command given in [[Acts 7:33]], signifying that the common must be set aside in the presence of the divine.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5266}}` is far more than a simple article of clothing. It serves as a powerful symbol in the New Testament to convey concepts of humility, status, and reverence. From John the Baptist's declaration of unworthiness to the father's restoration of his son, the **shoe** acts as a visual marker of one's position relative to God and others. Whether being taken off for worship or put on as a sign of honor, **hypódēma** illustrates how an everyday object is used to communicate deep theological truths.
TRV