This symbol of preparation was a once and for all act done for the twelve.1 6. Footwashing as Soteriological Sign The connection between footwashing and Jesus’ death on the cross is such an important dimension of the pericope that many scholars emphasize that relationship.2 Certain interpreters claim this theme to be the primary emphasis of the passage. The essential nature of the washing (v. 8), its cleansing effects, the centrality of the cross in John, the emphasis upon Jesus’ love, and the pericope’s