Schaff's Bible Dictionary
FEET. To remove the shoes from the feet was regarded as a token of reverence, and also of mourning. Ex 3:5; Eze 24:17. It is supposed that the priests officiated with naked feet, and in modern times, among heathen nations and some nominal Christians, it is customary to enter the place of worship with the shoes off and the feet washed. To wash the feet was a common mark of hospitality, Gen 18:4, and was usually done by a servant, 1 Sam 25:41; John 13:5-6. This custom still prevails in the East.
At Smyrna the washing of the priests' feet by the bishop is a distinct and very imposing ceremony, and is designed to be an exact imitation of Christ's example. See Clothes, Dust, Foot. Foot-chains are supposed to be meant by the word "chains" in Num 31:50 and Isa 3:19. They were worn around the ankles, and caused the wearer to observe a certain measured pace. The same ornaments are now worn by the women of Syria and Arabia. Little rings are hung upon them, which tinkle when the foot is in motion, and they are often richly ornamented.