### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypopódion**, represented by `{{G5286}}`, literally means "something under the feet," and is translated as **footstool**. It appears 9 times in 9 unique verses. It is a compound word derived from ὑπό (under) and πούς (foot), and is used figuratively to denote a position of subjugation or submission.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the scriptures, `{{G5286}}` is frequently used in a powerful Messianic prophecy where the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` **said** `{{G2036}}` he will **make** `{{G5087}}` his **enemies** `{{G2190}}` a **footstool** ([[Matthew 22:44]], [[Hebrews 1:13]]). This imagery signifies complete and total victory over adversaries. The term is also used to describe the relationship between God's throne and creation, where **heaven** `{{G3772}}` is his **throne** `{{G2362}}` and the **earth** `{{G1093}}` is his **footstool** [[Acts 7:49]]. In a more social context, James uses the term to condemn showing partiality, where a poor man is told to **sit** `{{G2521}}` under a wealthy man's **footstool** [[James 2:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of authority and submission:
* `{{G2362}}` **thrónos** (throne): This word is often paired with **hypopódion**. Scripture states that **heaven** `{{G3772}}` is God's **throne**, and the **earth** `{{G1093}}` is His **footstool** [[Acts 7:49]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This term identifies those who are to be placed in a position of subjugation under Christ's feet, being made His **footstool** [[Matthew 22:44]].
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (earth): Defined as the solid part of the terrene globe, the **earth** is explicitly identified as God's **footstool**, emphasizing His cosmic sovereignty [[Matthew 5:35]].
* `{{G1188}}` **dexiós** (right hand): This denotes the position of supreme honor and authority. Christ is to **sit** `{{G2521}}` at the **right hand** of the Father until His enemies are made His **footstool** [[Hebrews 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5286}}` is significant. It illustrates a clear hierarchy of authority, both divine and human.
* **Cosmic Authority:** The imagery of the **earth** `{{G1093}}` as God's **footstool** establishes His absolute sovereignty over all creation. It places the entire world in a position of submission to the heavenly **throne** `{{G2362}}` of God [[Acts 7:49]].
* **Christ's Ultimate Triumph:** The recurring phrase "make thine **enemies** `{{G2190}}` thy **footstool**" is a central theological statement about the exaltation of Christ. It signifies His ultimate victory and the subjugation of all powers that oppose Him [[Hebrews 1:13]].
* **A Symbol of Submission:** To be made a **footstool** is to be utterly conquered and placed in a state of submission. This applies both to Christ's **enemies** `{{G2190}}` who are **expecting** `{{G1551}}` to be made his **footstool** [[Hebrews 10:13]] and, in the context of human injustice, to the poor who are treated with contempt [[James 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5286}}` **hypopódion** is a term rich with theological significance. While literally a "foot-rest," it is used exclusively in scripture to illustrate concepts of authority, submission, and ultimate victory. From depicting the **earth** `{{G1093}}` as subject to God's heavenly **throne** `{{G2362}}` to prophesying the final subjugation of Christ's **enemies** `{{G2190}}`, the word serves as a powerful symbol of divine sovereignty and power.
TRV