Matthew 26:7

a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He reclined at the table.

Study Bible

a woman came to Him
This phrase introduces an unnamed woman, whose identity is not specified in this passage but is traditionally understood to be Mary of Bethany from parallel accounts. Her approach to Jesus is significant, as it demonstrates boldness and devotion. In the cultural context of the time, women were often not given prominence, yet this woman's actions are recorded in the Gospels, highlighting the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. Her coming to Jesus signifies an act of worship and reverence, breaking societal norms to honor Him.

with an alabaster jar
The alabaster jar is a significant detail, as alabaster was a precious stone, often used to store valuable ointments and perfumes. The use of such a jar indicates the value and importance of the contents. Alabaster jars were typically sealed to preserve the fragrance, and breaking the jar would mean using all of its contents at once. This act symbolizes total devotion and sacrifice, as the woman offers something of great worth to Jesus.

of very expensive perfume
The perfume, identified in other Gospel accounts as pure nard, was a luxury item, imported from the Himalayas, and was extremely costly. The Greek term used here, "polytimos," emphasizes the great value of the perfume. This detail underscores the sacrificial nature of the woman's act, as she offers something of immense financial worth. Her willingness to pour out such an expensive item reflects her understanding of Jesus' worth and her desire to honor Him above material possessions.

which she poured on His head
Pouring the perfume on Jesus' head is an act of anointing, a practice with deep roots in Jewish tradition. Anointing was often associated with consecration and blessing, used for priests and kings. By anointing Jesus, the woman acknowledges His messianic identity and foreshadows His impending death and burial. This act of anointing is both prophetic and symbolic, recognizing Jesus as the Anointed One, the Christ.

as He was reclining at the table
In the cultural context of the time, reclining at the table was a common posture during meals, especially at formal banquets. This setting indicates a moment of fellowship and intimacy. The woman's act of anointing Jesus during this time of fellowship highlights the personal and relational aspect of worship. It serves as a reminder that true worship is not confined to specific times or places but can occur in the midst of everyday life and interactions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the passage, reclining at the table, symbolizing His role as the honored guest.

2. The Woman
Unnamed in this passage, she performs an act of devotion by anointing Jesus with expensive perfume.

3. Alabaster Jar
A container made from a fine stone, used to hold precious ointments or perfumes, signifying the value of the contents.

4. Expensive Perfume
Represents a costly sacrifice, indicating the woman's deep reverence and love for Jesus.

5. Reclining at the Table
A customary position during meals in ancient times, indicating a setting of fellowship and intimacy.

Teaching Points

Extravagant Worship
The woman's act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume demonstrates the importance of offering our best to God, regardless of the cost.

Preparation for Sacrifice
Her action foreshadows Jesus' impending death and burial, reminding us of the necessity of preparing our hearts for His sacrifice.

Courageous Devotion
The woman’s willingness to perform such a bold act in a public setting encourages believers to express their faith openly and without fear of judgment.

Value of Sacrifice
The costly perfume symbolizes the value of sacrificial giving, challenging us to consider what we are willing to give up for the sake of Christ.

Recognition of Christ’s Worth
Her act signifies a deep understanding of Jesus' true identity and worth, prompting us to reflect on how we perceive and honor Him in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the woman's act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume teach us about the nature of true worship?

2. How can we apply the principle of sacrificial giving in our own lives today, and what might that look like practically?

3. In what ways does this passage challenge us to express our faith more boldly and publicly?

4. How does the woman's understanding of Jesus' worth influence our own perception of His role in our lives?

5. What connections can we draw between this act of anointing and the concept of being chosen or set apart by God, as seen in other scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Mark 14:3-9
Provides a parallel account of the anointing, emphasizing the woman's act as a preparation for Jesus' burial.

John 12:1-8
Identifies the woman as Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, and highlights the significance of her devotion.

Luke 7:36-50
Another anointing account, focusing on forgiveness and love, illustrating the transformative power of grace.

Psalm 23:5
The anointing of the head with oil as a symbol of blessing and honor.

1 Samuel 16:13
Anointing as a sign of being chosen by God, as seen in the anointing of David.