852. Position of Teacher and Scholar
• 1 min. read • grade level: 11
In Jewish schools the master sat on a high chair, the elder pupils on a lower bench, and the youngest on the ground. The general custom at present in the East is for the teacher and pupils to sit upon the ground, and, according to Maimonides, this was once the ancient practice. The custom probably varied at different periods, but in either case the pupils were literally “at the feet” of their instructor. This is referred to in Luke 10:3939And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. (Luke 10:39), where we are told that Mary “sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.”