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FOOTSTOOL ( ὑðïðüäéïí ).—With the single exception of Jam_2:3 the word is used figuratively in the NT, to express the idea of ‘subjection’ or ‘complete control.’ In this sense it occurs frequently in the Gospels: e.g. Mat_22:44, Mar_12:36, Luk_20:43, where the Synoptists record Christ’s quotation from Psalms 110—a psalm always regarded by the Jews as distinctly Messianic. In Mat_22:44 Revised Version NT 1881, OT 1885 , on the authority of some of the most ancient MSS [Note: SS Manuscripts.] and versions, accepts ὑðïêÜôù instead of ὑðïðüäéïí , and translates, ‘till I put thine enemies under thy feet.’ Similarly in Mar_12:36 ὑðïêÜôù is read by many ancient authorities, and is adopted by WH [Note: H Westcott and Hort’s text.] . Here, however, Revised Version NT 1881, OT 1885 retains ὑðïðüäéïí (with marg. note); but (as also in Luk_20:43 and Mat_5:35) translates more correctly ‘footstool of thy (or his) feet’ instead of Authorized Version ‘thy (or his) footstool.’
In its application to Christ the word shows Him in His Kingly office triumphing over His enemies, and bringing all men into captivity to His obedience; cf. 1Co_15:25 ‘For he must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet.’
Dugald Clark.