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 9:18andJas 2:3. In these the footstool was a sort of step or support for the feet placed before the throne or any pretentious seat.
Of figurative uses, there are the following groups:
(1) Of the earth:Isa 66:1;Mt 5:35;Ac 7:49.
(2) Of the ark:1Ch 28:2.
(3) Of the Temple:Ps 99:5;132:7;La 2:1; compareIsa 60:13.
(4) Of heathen enemies subdued by the Messianic King:Ps 110:1;Mt 22:44the King James Version;Mr 12:36;Lu 20:43;Ac 2:35;Heb 1:13;10:13.
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. Compare1Co 15:25-27, in which all things, including death, are represented as subject to Christ and placed beneath His feet.
Leonard W. Doolan