Deuteronomy 33:25

Shoes. The word here translated “shoes” does not occur elsewhere in the Old Testament. It is better translated “bars,” as is evident from Nehemiah 3:3, where a similar form is used. It is derived from the verb “to bolt,” “to shut fast.” The meaning here is perhaps that of impregnability, referring to Asher’s fortresses and homes. See Psalm 107:16; Isaiah 45:2, where “iron” and “brass” are mentioned together with gates and bars. These materials are not generally mentioned in connection with shoes.