Final answer:
The correct answer is option b) The house servants.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the culture of Jesus' day, the task of washing feet was predominantly assigned to the house servants. This practice was considered a menial and lowly job, often performed as a sign of hospitality and service towards guests. In historical and biblical accounts, foot washing is depicted as a humble act, and within the New Testament, specifically the accounts of The Washing of the Feet described in John 13:2-15, Jesus turns this cultural norm on its head by Himself washing His disciples' feet. This act served as a potent symbol of humility and servant leadership, reversing the expected roles and demonstrating that even those who lead should be willing to serve in the most humble capacities.
This tradition is underscored in the mosaic at Hosios Loukas Monastery, showing Christ washing Peter's feet, an act which had a lasting impact on Christian teachings and practices. The gesture conveyed a powerful lesson on the importance of serving others, a central tenet of Christian ethics. While the eldest son, religious leaders, or the host or hostess might perform acts of service, the task of washing guests' feet was customarily below their social standing and thus designated to servants.