Translations
Interlinear
Notes
Jesus explains the woman’s action. She had anointed his body in preparation for burial. It is not clear whether the woman understood that the death of Jesus was near, but her loving act served the purpose Jesus described.
Jesus defended the woman’s action. That the disciples would always have the poor among them did not minimize the concern Jesus has for the poor. The opportunity to minister directly to Jesus was limited. Only hours remained! She chose the best thing she could do with her perfume.
The story of Jesus’s anointing by a woman in Bethany (14:3–9) introduces the events that follow. Luke’s account (Luke 7:36–50) is quite different and may describe another event. This incident took place in Bethany, a village about 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) east of Jerusalem on the lower eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. Jesus apparently stayed there when he was in Judea (Mark 11:1, 11–12).
The house belonged to Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy (a disease that often caused people to be separated from society). He may have been healed by Jesus (see 1:40–45).
reclining ("sitting back"): The meal was a banquet because the guests were reclining while they ate. A woman (see John 12:3) broke the neck of a sealed alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume (pure nard) and poured all of it on the head of Jesus (see Exodus 29:4–7; 2 Kings 9:1–6).
Parallels
Glossary
Bethany Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Gospel Mark, Gospel of Mary Passion Simon
Topics
Anointing of the Dead Jesus, the Christ: Anointed with Precious Ointment (In Bethany) Jesus, the Christ: Revelations by: Fame of the Woman Who Anointed his Head Mary: Sister of Lazarus: Anoints Jesus Women: Mary and Martha