What is the meaning of Luke 7:46? You did not anoint My head with oil • Jesus speaks these exact words to Simon the Pharisee, openly contrasting Simon’s cool reception with the lavish love shown by the repentant woman (Luke 7:44–45). • In first-century Israel, anointing a guest’s head with oil was a common act of hospitality, refreshment, and honor (Psalm 23:5; 2 Samuel 12:20). Simon literally failed to extend even this basic courtesy, exposing a heart that, while religiously strict, was spiritually indifferent toward Christ. • Oil in Scripture often points to joy and consecration. By withholding it, Simon silently declared that Jesus was not worthy of special recognition—an attitude Jesus directly challenges (Isaiah 61:3; Acts 10:38). • The Lord’s rebuke underscores that outward religiosity means nothing if it is not matched by genuine love and honor for Him (Matthew 15:8). but she has anointed My feet with perfume • The unnamed woman, widely identified as a notorious sinner in the town, approaches Jesus in brokenness and faith (Luke 7:37–38). Instead of merely anointing His head, she goes lower—His feet—demonstrating humility and deep repentance (John 12:3 offers a similar scene with Mary of Bethany). • The perfume was costly (Mark 14:3). Pouring it out on Jesus’ feet illustrated extravagant devotion; she held nothing back. Where Simon withheld inexpensive olive oil, she poured out precious fragrance. • Kneeling at His feet fulfills the prophetic picture of sinners finding mercy at the Messiah’s feet (Psalm 51:17; Luke 8:35). Her outward act reveals an inward reality: she believes Jesus can and will forgive her sins. • Jesus accepts her worship without rebuke, affirming both His divinity and His authority to forgive (Luke 7:48–50), something only God can do (Isaiah 43:25). summary Simon’s omission and the woman’s action form a vivid, literal contrast between empty formality and heartfelt faith. The verse teaches that Christ looks past social standing to the posture of the heart. Neglecting even simple expressions of honor toward Jesus exposes spiritual coldness, while extravagant, humble love—even from the least esteemed—receives His full approval and forgiveness. |
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