Why is it insulting to show someone the bottom of your shoe/foot?

Question

In Middle Eastern countries, it's an insult to show the soles of your feet and shoes. Apparently it's an insult. So if you wanted to insult somebody, you just twist your leg and show someone the sole of your foot?

Answer 1

It's definitely rude to show the bottom of your foot or shoe in Islam -- not sure why, but I have always assumed that there must be a verse in the Quran or some sort of traditional belief that bad thoughts/evil left via your feet. If you remember the coverage of the Iraqis pulling down the big Saddam statue, a lot of them were hitting it with their shoe(s).

I'm not Muslim, but I think there's a bit of tolerance for an obvious non-Muslim travelling in the region regarding some of these customs. It's appreciated if you do show respect and not do things intentionally. If it looked intentional, they'd understand the insult.

You also shouldn't wear shoes into a mosque but that might be more associated with not wanting people to bring dirt inside.

Answer 2

I have asked this question to my Arab friends and they say that it has no religious significance. However, because the feet (and shoes) touch the ground (that could be soild and dirty) it is considered lowly. Therefore, if you stick your feet or shoe in someone's face as if you are putting them down and saying that you value them lower than the soles of your feet/shoes.

Answer 3

Sole Of A Show

Answer 4

Why is it offensive or insulting to show your naked *** to someone? if you can explain that,then your question is answered.

Answer 5

maybe because feet are use for walking and more often that they become dirty

Answer 6

because it is disgusting to do that