Jesus Washing the Disciples’ Feet

During the Last Supper, Jesus performed the menial task of washing his disciples’ feet—work typically done by the lowest household servant. This shocking act of humility demonstrated the radical nature of servant leadership in God’s kingdom.

Rising from the meal, Jesus wrapped a towel around his waist, poured water into a basin, and began washing the disciples’ feet and drying them with the towel. Peter objected strenuously: “You shall never wash my feet!” But Jesus replied, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” Peter then asked for a complete bath, but Jesus explained that those already bathed need only wash their feet.

After washing all twelve feet—including those of Judas Iscariot who would betray him—Jesus explained: “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 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 also should do just as I have done to you.”

This act symbolizes both spiritual cleansing and the call to mutual service. Many Christian traditions practice footwashing liturgically, especially during Maundy Thursday services (from Latin “mandatum,” the command to love one another). The scene reveals Christ’s character before the crucifixion—the King of Kings stooping to serve, the sinless one cleansing the sinful.