Luke 7:44

And turning toward the woman, He said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give Me water for My feet, but she wet My feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair.

Study Bible

And turning toward the woman
This phrase highlights Jesus' intentional focus and attention. In the cultural context of the time, women were often marginalized, and Jesus' act of turning toward the woman signifies a radical departure from societal norms. The Greek word for "turning" (στραφεὶς, strafeis) implies a deliberate action, emphasizing Jesus' purposeful engagement with the woman, acknowledging her presence and actions in a profound way.

He said to Simon
Jesus addresses Simon, the Pharisee who had invited Him to his house. This direct address is significant because it shows Jesus' willingness to confront and teach those who are in positions of religious authority. The Greek verb "said" (εἶπεν, eipen) is used frequently in the Gospels to introduce important teachings or revelations, indicating that what follows is of great importance.

Do you see this woman?
This question is rhetorical and serves to challenge Simon's perception and judgment. The Greek word for "see" (βλέπεις, blepeis) goes beyond physical sight, suggesting a deeper understanding or recognition. Jesus is inviting Simon to look beyond societal prejudices and see the woman's actions and heart.

I entered your house
This phrase sets the stage for a comparison between Simon's actions and the woman's. The act of entering someone's house in ancient times was significant, as it was a gesture of hospitality and respect. Jesus' entry into Simon's house symbolizes an opportunity for Simon to show honor and hospitality, which he fails to do.

You did not give Me water for My feet
In the historical context, offering water for a guest's feet was a basic act of hospitality, especially in a dusty, sandal-wearing culture. The omission of this act by Simon is a significant breach of social etiquette and respect. The Greek word for "give" (ἔδωκας, edokas) implies a gift or offering, highlighting Simon's neglect.

but she wet My feet with her tears
The woman's actions are contrasted with Simon's inaction. Her tears represent deep repentance and devotion. The Greek word for "wet" (ἔβρεξεν, ebrexen) indicates an abundant outpouring, symbolizing the depth of her sorrow and love. Her tears serve as a substitute for the water Simon failed to provide.

and wiped them with her hair
This act is both intimate and humble. In the cultural context, a woman's hair was considered her glory, and using it to wipe Jesus' feet signifies a profound act of humility and devotion. The Greek word for "wiped" (ἐξέμαξεν, exemaxen) suggests a thorough and careful action, reflecting her dedication and reverence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is the one who addresses Simon and highlights the actions of the woman. His response is a teaching moment about love, forgiveness, and humility.

2. The Woman
Although unnamed in this passage, she is a sinner who demonstrates deep repentance and love for Jesus by washing His feet with her tears and wiping them with her hair.

3. Simon the Pharisee
A Pharisee who invited Jesus to his house. His lack of hospitality is contrasted with the woman's actions, revealing his self-righteousness and lack of understanding of Jesus' mission.

4. The House of Simon
The setting for this event, it serves as a backdrop for the contrast between religious formalism and genuine repentance and love.

5. The Act of Washing Feet
A cultural practice of hospitality in ancient times, symbolizing humility and service. The woman's actions go beyond cultural norms, showing her deep reverence and love for Jesus.

Teaching Points

True Repentance and Love
The woman's actions demonstrate genuine repentance and love for Jesus. True repentance is not just a feeling but is expressed through actions that honor Christ.

Contrast of Attitudes
Simon's lack of hospitality and the woman's extravagant love highlight the difference between self-righteousness and humble devotion. We are called to examine our own attitudes towards Jesus and others.

Cultural Norms vs. Kingdom Values
The woman's actions defy cultural expectations, showing that Kingdom values often challenge societal norms. We are encouraged to prioritize God's values over cultural pressures.

Hospitality and Service
Jesus' rebuke of Simon underscores the importance of hospitality and service as expressions of love and respect. We are called to serve others with humility and love.

Recognition of Jesus' Worth
The woman's actions reflect her recognition of Jesus' worth and her gratitude for His forgiveness. We are invited to consider how we express our recognition of Jesus' worth in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the woman's act of washing Jesus' feet with her tears challenge our understanding of repentance and love?

2. In what ways can we identify with Simon's attitude, and how can we shift towards the woman's example of devotion?

3. How do cultural norms today conflict with Kingdom values, and how can we prioritize God's values in our daily lives?

4. What practical steps can we take to demonstrate hospitality and service to others as an expression of our faith?

5. How can we cultivate a heart that recognizes and responds to the worth of Jesus in our everyday actions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 13:1-17
Jesus washes the disciples' feet, teaching them about servanthood and humility. This connects to the woman's act of washing Jesus' feet, emphasizing humility and love.

Matthew 26:6-13
The anointing of Jesus by a woman in Bethany, highlighting the theme of devotion and the recognition of Jesus' worth.

Psalm 51:17
The broken and contrite heart that God does not despise, reflecting the woman's attitude in Luke 7:44.

James 2:14-26
Faith without works is dead, paralleling the woman's demonstration of her faith through her actions.