Shaking the dust from the feet

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Shaking the dust from the feet was an old Jewish practice in biblical times. It signaled separation from others’ beliefs or practices and served as a warning that judgment could follow if they stayed.

In the New Testament, Jesus told his twelve disciples to go to Jewish towns and, if they would not receive them or listen to their message, to shake the dust off their feet as a sign against those towns (Matthew 10:14–15). The only explicit New Testament example of this gesture is when Paul and Barnabas were driven out of Antioch, Pisidia by Jews who opposed their teaching to Gentiles (Acts 13:50–51).

In 1830, Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, introduced the practice through revelations. He and Oliver Cowdery were told to cast off the dust of their feet as a testimony against those who would not receive them. Further guidance in 1831–1832 explained when and how to do it, sometimes in secret or against a house. The practice continued through much of the 19th century, including a notable 1881 act against 400 people seen as enemies of Mormon polygamy. In 1899 church leaders told mission presidents to stop using it as routine practice, unless there was just cause and it was directed by the Spirit. In 1915, James E. Talmage urged that it be used only in unusual, extreme cases, since it is a strong ceremonial act of accusation and testimony. Today, the practice is rare, though some doctrinal guidance still mentions it as a form of testimony under broad Spirit-led directions (Doctrine and Covenants 24:15; 60:15; 75:20; 84:92; 99:4).

Beyond the LDS church, Christians differ in opinion. Some see the idea as a literal instruction for today; others view it as a historical or symbolic gesture. The concept has appeared in various forms over the centuries, including references by reformers and critics.

Today, most Christian groups do not practice shaking the dust off the feet literally, but the idea remains as a reminder of faith, judgment, and distinguishing truth from rejection.