What biblical passage is the primary source for the practice of foot washing?

The primary biblical passage detailing the practice of foot washing is found in the Gospel of John, specifically chapters 13:1-17. This passage recounts Jesus washing the feet of His disciples before the Passover feast, an act that serves as both an example and a commandment for His followers.

How did the term "Maundy" become associated with the Thursday before Easter?

The medieval Latin term "mandatum" (from which "Maundy" is derived) came to be applied to the rite of foot washing performed on the Thursday before Easter Sunday. This day became known in English as "Maundy Thursday," a name documented as early as 1440.

What ancient customs influenced the practice of foot washing?

The practice of foot washing is rooted in the hospitality customs of ancient civilizations, particularly in regions where sandals were common footwear. Hosts would traditionally provide water for guests to wash their feet as a sign of courtesy and respect, or servants would perform this task.

What does the Old Testament say about foot washing?

The Old Testament mentions foot washing in several passages, often in the context of hospitality customs. For example, Genesis 18:4 and 19:2 describe Abraham providing water for guests to wash their feet, and Genesis 24:32 mentions a servant washing feet. 1 Samuel 25:41 is noted as the first biblical passage where an honored person offers to wash feet as a sign of humility.

What did the early Christian apologist Tertullian write about foot washing?

Tertullian, writing in the early third century, mentioned the practice of foot washing as part of Christian worship. He described it involving a basin of water for the "saints' feet" and a "linen towel," suggesting it was a recognized ritual in the early Church.

How did Clement of Alexandria connect foot washing to spiritual concepts?

Clement of Alexandria linked the new sandals given to the Prodigal Son in Jesus' parable with foot washing. He described these sandals as being fit only for those whose feet had been washed by Jesus, thereby connecting the practice to repentance and spiritual cleansing by Christ.

What was the significance of foot washing in the early Church according to the text?

In the early Church, foot washing was seen as connected to repentance and involved a spiritual cleansing by Jesus. It was sometimes practiced prior to receiving the Eucharist and was viewed as an act of piety, submission, and humility, emulating Christ's example.

What did Cyprian of Carthage say about the practice of foot washing?

Around 256 AD, Cyprian, the bishop of Carthage, wrote about foot washing, stating that it "teach[es] the hands how to act in service." This highlights the practical and instructive aspect of the ritual in demonstrating humility and service.

Which early Church Fathers encouraged the practice of foot washing?

Several early Church Fathers encouraged the practice of foot washing as an imitation of Christ. These include Origen, John Chrysostom, and Augustine of Hippo, who all wrote in favor of the practice around the 4th and 5th centuries.

In which regions was the observance of foot washing at the time of baptism maintained in early Christianity?

The practice of foot washing in connection with baptism was maintained in several regions during early Christianity, including Africa, Gaul, Germany, Milan, northern Italy, and Ireland.

What did St. Benedict's Rule prescribe regarding foot washing?

St. Benedict's Rule, established in 529 AD for the Benedictine Order, prescribed hospitality foot washing in addition to a communal foot washing performed for humility. This indicates the practice was integrated into monastic life.

How did the Roman Catholic Church historically observe foot washing?

Historically, the Roman Catholic Church observed foot washing on Maundy Thursday. From 1570 to 1955, the service was often celebrated separately from the Holy Thursday Mass, with the Pope washing the feet of selected individuals, initially sub-deacons and then poor men.

How did Pope Pius XII change the practice of foot washing in the Catholic Church?

In 1955, Pope Pius XII revised the ritual and integrated the foot-washing service directly into the Mass of the Lord's Supper. Since then, it is celebrated after the homily, typically with twelve selected individuals whose feet are washed by the priest.

What significant change did Pope Francis introduce regarding the foot washing rite in the Catholic Church?

Pope Francis introduced a significant change by washing the feet of women and Muslims at a juvenile detention center in 2013, diverging from the previous practice that often excluded women. Subsequently, the Roman Missal was revised in 2016 to explicitly permit women to have their feet washed on Maundy Thursday.

How is foot washing observed in the Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic Churches?

In the Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic Churches, the ritual of foot washing is performed on Holy and Great Thursday (Maundy Thursday). Typically, a bishop washes the feet of twelve priests, or an abbot washes the feet of twelve monks, usually after the Divine Liturgy.

What is the practice of foot washing in the Coptic Orthodox Church?

In the Coptic Orthodox Church, the parish priest performs the foot washing service. He blesses the water with the cross, similar to blessing holy water, and then washes the feet of the entire congregation.

How is foot washing observed in the Syriac Orthodox Church?

In the Syriac Orthodox Church, a bishop or priest washes the feet of twelve selected men, who can be priests or laypeople. This act is accompanied by kissing their feet and is considered a prayer for the congregation's cleansing from sins.

Which Anabaptist groups regularly practice foot washing, and what is its significance?

Groups descending from the 1708 Schwarzenau Brethren, such as the Grace Brethren, Church of the Brethren, Brethren Church, Brethren in Christ, Old German Baptist Brethren, and Dunkard Brethren, regularly practice foot washing. It is considered one of the ordinances of their Love Feast, promoting humility, care for others, and egalitarianism among members.

What is the historical practice of foot washing in the Moravian Church?

The Moravian Church has historically practiced foot washing (pedelavium) as part of their emphasis on early Church customs, often observed before the Lord's Supper. While it became non-compulsory in 1818, it continues to be practiced in many congregations, particularly on Maundy Thursday.

How do certain Methodist denominations incorporate foot washing into their practices?

Some Methodist denominations, like the Missionary Methodist Church and the New Congregational Methodist Church, practice foot washing when the Lord's Supper is celebrated. Other Methodist groups, such as the Free Methodist Church and Methodist Protestant Church, observe it on Maundy Thursday or during events like General Conference.

Which Baptist groups consider foot washing a significant ordinance?

Many Baptist groups consider foot washing a significant ordinance, often referred to as the "third ordinance." These include the Separate Baptists in Christ, General Association of Baptists, Free Will Baptists, Primitive Baptists, Union Baptists, Old Regular Baptists, Christian Baptist Church of God, and many Southern, General, and Independent Baptists.

How do Pentecostal denominations typically practice the ordinance of foot washing?

Many Pentecostal denominations practice foot washing, often in conjunction with the Lord's Supper or as a separate optional service. When performed together, men and women typically participate in separate groups, washing each other's feet as a demonstration of humility and service.

What role did Joseph Smith play in the introduction of foot washing among Latter-day Saints?

In the mid-1830s, Joseph Smith introduced temple rites that included foot washing, primarily among men, in Kirtland, Ohio. This practice was later adapted into the Endowment ritual, though the contemporary practice does not specifically involve washing feet.

How is foot washing practiced by the True Jesus Church?

The True Jesus Church includes foot washing as a scriptural sacrament, alongside Baptism and the Lord's Supper. Members practice it based on John 13:1-11 to have a part with Christ.

When do Seventh-day Adventists typically practice foot washing?

Most Seventh-day Adventist congregations schedule an opportunity for foot washing preceding each quarterly Communion service. It is often referred to as the Ordinance of Foot-Washing or the Ordinance of Humility.

What is the dual purpose of foot washing for Seventh-day Adventists?

For Seventh-day Adventists, the primary purpose of foot washing is to renew the cleansing that comes from Christ. Secondarily, it serves to seek and celebrate reconciliation with other members before partaking in Communion.

What was the practice of foot washing in the Roman church by the 8th century?

By the 8th century, the Roman church had established the practice of foot washing, though it was not connected with baptism at that time.

What did the Synod of Toledo (694) decree regarding foot washing?

The Synod of Toledo, held in 694 AD, declared that foot washing should be observed on Maundy Thursday. This decree influenced the practice in Roman Catholic churches.

What is the significance of the "mandatum novum" in the context of foot washing?

The "mandatum novum" (new commandment) refers to Jesus' instruction in John 13:34, "Love one another as I have loved you." This commandment is directly linked to the act of foot washing, which symbolizes this loving humility and service.

How did the practice of foot washing by European monarchs on Maundy Thursday reflect their role?

The practice of European monarchs performing foot washing on Maundy Thursday was a symbolic act of humility and service, mirroring Christ's actions. It demonstrated their role as servants of their people, even while holding royal authority.

What is the connection between foot washing and the concept of "Servant of the Servants of God" in Christian theology?

The concept of "Servant of the Servants of God," historically associated with bishops and the Pope, is linked to Jesus' commissioning of the Twelve Apostles. The act of foot washing embodies this calling to humble service, extending this imitation of Christ to all bishops as successors of the Apostles.

What is the significance of the "true vine" discourse in relation to Jesus' actions on the night of the Last Supper?

The "true vine" discourse, found in John 15, is part of Jesus' farewell teachings on the night of the Last Supper. It follows the foot washing ceremony and emphasizes the intimate connection between Jesus and His followers, who are called to remain in Him to bear fruit.

What does the text suggest about the practice of foot washing by women in the early church?

The text suggests that in the 1st century, Christian women went to locations like prisons and washed the feet of marginalized people. This indicates an early practice of foot washing involving women, serving those in need.

What is the theological significance of Jesus washing the disciples' feet according to the text?

According to the text, Jesus washing His disciples' feet was a demonstration of His loving humility and a commandment for them to emulate His service. It is seen as a call to imitation of Christ and a symbol of spiritual cleansing and unity.

What is the meaning of the term "Nipter" as a name for foot washing?

"Nipter" is an alternative name for the religious rite of foot washing. While the exact etymology isn't provided in the text, it's listed alongside other terms like "Pedilavium," suggesting it refers to the act of washing.

What is the significance of Jesus washing Peter's feet in John 13:1-17?

When Jesus washed Peter's feet, Peter initially protested, saying, "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head." Jesus responded that if He did not wash Peter, Peter would have no part with Him, highlighting the spiritual necessity and symbolic meaning of the act.

How did the practice of foot washing differ between the early church and later Roman Catholic practice before 1955?

While the early church sometimes practiced foot washing before the Eucharist or in connection with baptism, the Roman Catholic Church's practice from 1570 to 1955 often separated the foot-washing service from the main Mass, performing it hours later.

What is the symbolic meaning of foot washing in the Syriac Orthodox Church?

In the Syriac Orthodox Church, the foot washing ritual symbolizes a prayer for the congregation's cleansing from sins, in addition to commemorating Jesus' act of humility.

What is the "Ordinance of Humility" as practiced by Seventh-day Adventists?

The "Ordinance of Humility," also known as the Ordinance of Foot-Washing, is practiced by Seventh-day Adventists before Communion services. It aims to renew the cleansing from sin through Christ and to foster reconciliation among church members before they partake in the Lord's Supper.

How did the practice of foot washing by Pope Francis differ from previous papal practices?

Pope Francis notably washed the feet of women and individuals of other faiths (Muslims) at a juvenile detention center in 2013, diverging from the traditional practice of washing only men's feet, which was often limited to clergy or specific groups.

What is the historical context of foot washing in relation to hospitality customs?

Historically, foot washing was a common act of hospitality in ancient cultures, especially where people wore sandals. Providing water for guests to wash their feet was a gesture of respect and cleanliness.

What is the significance of the "Book of Glory" in the Gospel of John?

The "Book of Glory" in the Gospel of John refers to the latter part of the Gospel, from chapter 13 onwards, which focuses on Jesus' passion, death, resurrection, and ascension. The foot washing ceremony occurs at the beginning of this section, marking the transition to Jesus' final hours.

How did the practice of foot washing relate to baptism in some early Christian communities?

In some early Christian communities, the practice of foot washing was observed at the time of baptism. This connection suggests it was seen as part of the spiritual cleansing and new life associated with the sacrament of baptism.

What is the significance of the "Book of Common Prayer" in relation to Anglican liturgy?

The "Book of Common Prayer" is a foundational text for Anglican liturgy, outlining the structure and content of various services, including the Daily Office and the Eucharist. It serves as a standard for worship across many Anglican churches.

What is the "Ornaments Rubric" in Anglican tradition?

The "Ornaments Rubric" is a directive within the Book of Common Prayer that specifies the traditional vestments and liturgical furnishings to be used in services. It has been a point of discussion and interpretation within Anglicanism regarding the style of worship.

What is the "Paschal Triduum" in the Anglican liturgical calendar?

The "Paschal Triduum" refers to the three most sacred days of Holy Week in the Anglican liturgical calendar: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, culminating in the Easter celebration. These days commemorate the final events of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

What is the role of the "Altar of repose" during Holy Week in Anglican practice?

The "Altar of repose" is a temporary altar set up during Holy Week, typically on Holy Thursday, where the consecrated elements of the Eucharist are placed after the Mass of the Lord's Supper. It serves as a place for prayer and adoration before the solemnities of Good Friday.

Maundy Foot Washing Wiki: The Sacred Rite of Maundy: A Scholarly Exploration of Foot Washing

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

What is Maundy?

Etymology and Definition

Maundy, also referred to as the Washing of the Saints' Feet, Washing of the Feet, Nipter, or Pedilavium, is a religious rite observed across various Christian denominations. The term originates from the Latin word mandatum, meaning "commandment." This name derives from the initial words of the biblical passage sung during the ceremony: "Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos" (John 13:34), translating to "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you."^[1]

Commemoration of Christ's Command

The ceremony serves to commemorate Christ's directive to His disciples, emulating His act of humble service in washing their feet. As recorded in the Gospel of John (13:14-17), Jesus instructed, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you."^[1] This act is intrinsically linked to the concept of loving humility and mutual service within the Christian faith.

Connection to Maundy Thursday

The medieval Latin term mandatum, evolving into "maundy," became associated with the foot-washing rite performed on the Thursday preceding Easter Sunday. This day is consequently known in English as "Maundy Thursday." The practice has historical roots dating back to the early centuries of Christianity, with early apologists like Tertullian mentioning its observance.^[4]

Biblical Foundation

The Gospel of John Account

The primary scriptural basis for Maundy is found in the Gospel of John, chapter 13, verses 1 through 17. This passage details Jesus' actions at the Last Supper, where He washed the feet of His disciples. The narrative highlights Jesus' foreknowledge of His impending departure and His profound love for His followers, demonstrating an act of profound humility and service.

The King James Version (KJV) translation reads:^[1]

Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him; Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

Ancient Hospitality and Symbolism

The practice of washing feet was deeply rooted in the hospitality customs of ancient Near Eastern cultures, particularly where sandals were the primary footwear. Hosts would offer water for guests to wash their feet, or a servant would perform this service. This act signified respect and care. The Bible references this custom in the Old Testament (e.g., Genesis 18:4, 1 Samuel 25:41) and implicitly in the New Testament, such as Jesus' observation of a Pharisee's lack of hospitality in Luke 7:44, where no water was provided for His feet.^[1] The act also carries spiritual symbolism, connecting to repentance and spiritual cleansing through Christ.^[4]

Historical Trajectory

Early Church Observance

Following the Apostolic Age, the practice of foot washing continued within the early Christian communities. Tertullian (c. 145–220 AD) documented its inclusion in Christian worship, describing the use of water and a linen towel.^[4] Clement of Alexandria (c. 150–215 AD) linked the practice to spiritual cleansing and repentance.^[4] The rite was mentioned by the Council of Elvira around 300 AD and encouraged by Church Fathers like Origen, John Chrysostom, and Augustine as an imitation of Christ.^[9]

Medieval and Later Practices

The practice was integrated into monastic rules, such as St. Benedict's Rule, and became associated with Maundy Thursday in the Roman Church by the 8th century.^[11] Various groups, including the Albigenses and Waldenses, observed foot washing as a rite. During the Reformation, it was a significant practice among radical reformation movements like the Anabaptists.^[12] European monarchs historically performed foot washing in their courts on Maundy Thursday, a tradition continued into the early 20th century by some royal houses.^[11]

Denominational Observances

Roman Catholic

Within the Catholic Church, the ritual washing of feet is now a component of the Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday. This liturgy commemorates the Last Supper and Jesus' act of washing His apostles' feet. Initially, the rite was performed separately from the Mass, but Pope Pius XII revised the ritual in 1955 to integrate it into the Mass following the homily. Notably, Pope Francis initiated changes allowing women to participate in the foot washing, a practice formalized in the revised Roman Missal.^[18]

Eastern Orthodox & Byzantine Catholic

The Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches observe the ritual of the Washing of Feet on Holy and Great Thursday. This service is typically conducted by a bishop washing the feet of twelve priests, or by an Abbot washing the feet of twelve monks. The ceremony occurs at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, involving scripture readings and prayers that dramatize the biblical event.^[1]

Lutheran and Anglican

Lutheran and Anglican churches often practice foot washing during the Eucharist liturgy on Maundy Thursday. The rite symbolizes Christ's humility and service before the Last Supper. In some Anglican traditions, the monarch commemorates Royal Maundy, though this does not typically involve literal foot washing.^[1] The practice can also occur during ordination services.

Anabaptist Traditions

Groups stemming from the Anabaptist tradition, including various Mennonite, Brethren, and Amish denominations, regularly practice foot washing. Often referred to as "feetwashing," it is considered a New Testament ordinance and a key part of their Love Feast, alongside the holy kiss and communion. This practice is seen as fostering humility, care for others, and egalitarianism among members.^[22]

Baptist Denominations

Many Baptist churches observe foot washing as a third ordinance, typically performed in conjunction with Communion. This practice is common among Separate Baptists in Christ, Free Will Baptists, Primitive Baptists, and various other Baptist groups. It is viewed as a literal observance of Christ's command and example.^[38]

Pentecostal and Restorationist

Various Pentecostal denominations and Restorationist movements, such as the True Jesus Church and many Church of God congregations, include foot washing as a sacrament or ordinance. It is often performed during Passover ceremonies or as a separate service, emphasizing humility, service, and reconciliation before partaking in Communion.^[48]

Seventh-day Adventist

Seventh-day Adventist congregations typically schedule foot washing before quarterly Communion services. This "Ordinance of Foot-Washing" or "Ordinance of Humility" is open to all believers and aims to renew spiritual cleansing and foster reconciliation among participants before Communion.^[49]

Latter-day Saint Movement

In the early history of the Latter Day Saint movement, Joseph Smith introduced foot washing as part of temple rites, emphasizing humility and service. While the modern Endowment ceremony does not specifically include foot washing, it remains a practice in certain related ordinances and among some branches of the movement.^[40]

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Maundy Foot Washing" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about maundy_foot_washing while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

province of brandenburg

shu han

lower house

catholic–eastern orthodox relations

References

Washing of the Feet on Holy Thursday. Catholic Online. 29 March 2006.

[1] NPR, 28 March 2013.

E.J. King, The Rule Statutes and Customs of the Hospitallers 1099â1310 (London: Methuen, 1934), p. 39.

Manual of Doctrine & Government of the Brethren in Christ Church (PDF)

Allan Anderson, An Introduction to Pentecostalism: Global Charismatic Christianity, Cambridge University Press, UK, 2013, p. 50

Smith, Joseph (1876). The book of Doctrine and Covenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Territory, Deseret News Office. p. 292.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Maundy (foot washing) Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not a theological or historical advisory. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional theological study, historical research, or consultation with religious authorities. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified scholars or clergy for in-depth understanding and guidance.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Sacred Rite of Maundy

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is Maundy? ℹ️

📜 Etymology and Definition

➡️ Commemoration of Christ's Command

🗓️ Connection to Maundy Thursday

Biblical Foundation 📖

💧 The Gospel of John Account

🏛️ Ancient Hospitality and Symbolism

Historical Trajectory ⏳

⛪ Early Church Observance

📜 Medieval and Later Practices

Denominational Observances ⛪

🇻🇦 Roman Catholic

☦️ Eastern Orthodox & Byzantine Catholic

🇬🇧 Lutheran and Anglican

💧 Anabaptist Traditions

📜 Baptist Denominations

🔥 Pentecostal and Restorationist

⭐ Seventh-day Adventist

🇺🇸 Latter-day Saint Movement

Related Topics 🔗

🎨 Artistic Depictions

🌊 Water in Religious Practice

📚 Liturgical Context

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Maundy?

Etymology and Definition

Commemoration of Christ's Command

Connection to Maundy Thursday

Biblical Foundation

The Gospel of John Account

Ancient Hospitality and Symbolism

Historical Trajectory

Early Church Observance

Medieval and Later Practices

Denominational Observances

Roman Catholic

Eastern Orthodox & Byzantine Catholic

Lutheran and Anglican

Anabaptist Traditions

Baptist Denominations

Pentecostal and Restorationist

Seventh-day Adventist

Latter-day Saint Movement

Related Topics

Artistic Depictions

Water in Religious Practice

Liturgical Context

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice