The Masonic Blue Slipper

Ruth 4: 7-11: Now this was the manner in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing, for to confirm all things; a man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his neighbor: and this was a testimony in Israel. Therefore the kinsman said unto Boaz, Buy it for thee. So he drew off his shoe.

And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people, Ye are witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s, and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s, of the hand of Naomi. Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place: ye are witnesses this day. And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem.

Ruth 4:7 is likely a familiar verse to any Mason, but some might not be so aware of the rest of this story. Not only is the act of removing a shoe a symbol of sincerity and of a solumn promise, it also can allude to our promise to protect those women whose care we are responsible for – our wives, widows, and daughters.

Today, this symbol is frequently seen on a small lapel pin, worn by the wives, widows, and daughters of Masons, particularly when travelling alone. It is a way of letting Masons she encounters in her travels know that she is the loved one of a Brother, and they should be ready to lend aid if needed.