This one is very difficult as the only scripture to fully deal with this scripture is an identical scripture found in
Ps 108:9. This is undoubtedly expressive of reproach as the shoe was removed and the face spit into whoever would not take up his brother’s widow for support and marriage.
De 25:9 Then shall his brother's wife come unto him in the presence of the elders, and loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face, and shall answer and say, So shall it be done unto that man that will not build up his brother's house. It would also seem to indicate a taking of possession which was done in the case of redeeming and purchasing, the shoe was given as a token that confirmed the purchase.
Ru 4:7 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. 4:8 Therefore the kinsman said unto Boaz, Buy it for thee. So he drew off his shoe. So the casting of the shoe over the land would most likely have to do with confirming the taking of the land by treading over their land.
