Footstool 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: 2 Chronicles 9:18 and James 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: Isaiah 66:1, Matthew 5:35, Acts 7:49.
(2) Of the ark: 1 Chronicles 28:2.
(3) Of the Temple: Psalms 99:5, Psalms 132:7, Lamentations 2:1; compare Isaiah 60:13.
(4) Of heathen enemies subdued by the Messianic King: Psalms 110:1, Matthew 22:44 the King James Version; Mark 12:36, Luke 20:43, Acts 2:35, Hebrews 1:13, Hebrews 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. Compare 1 Corinthians 15:25-27, in which all things, including death, are represented as subject to Christ and placed beneath His feet.
Leonard W. Doolan