Joshua’s removal of his sandals replicates what Moses did (Exodus 3:5) and thus signifies coming into the Lord’s presence. In the rest of the Bible, the removal of sandals appears to be a sign of humility (Deuteronomy 25:7–10; 2 Chronicles 28:15; Isaiah 20:2–4), which suggest an added meaning here, that Joshua must humbly submit himself before the Lord. 1
15 And the commander of the LORD’s army said to Joshua, “Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.