The anointing of Jesus is a significant event recorded in the Gospels, highlighting the recognition of Jesus' divine mission and foreshadowing His death and burial. This event is depicted in various accounts, each offering unique details and insights into the significance of the anointing.

Accounts in the Gospels

1. Matthew 26:6-13 : In the Gospel of Matthew, the anointing takes place in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper. A woman approaches Jesus with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume and pours it on His head as He reclines at the table. The disciples express indignation, questioning the waste of such a costly ointment, suggesting it could have been sold to benefit the poor. Jesus, however, defends the woman's actions, stating, "She has done a beautiful thing to Me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me. By pouring this perfume on My body, she has prepared Me for burial" (Matthew 26:10-12).

2. Mark 14:3-9 : Mark's account closely parallels that of Matthew, with the anointing occurring in Bethany at Simon the leper's house. The woman breaks the alabaster jar and pours the perfume on Jesus' head. The onlookers criticize her for the perceived waste, but Jesus commends her, saying, "She has done a beautiful deed to Me. She has done what she could; she has anointed My body beforehand for burial" (Mark 14:6, 8).

3. Luke 7:36-50 : Luke presents a different setting and context. Here, the anointing occurs in the house of a Pharisee named Simon. A sinful woman, known in the town, brings an alabaster jar of perfume. She stands behind Jesus at His feet, weeping, and begins to wet His feet with her tears. She wipes them with her hair, kisses them, and pours the perfume on them. Simon questions Jesus' prophetic insight, but Jesus uses the occasion to teach about forgiveness and love, saying, "Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven, as her great love has shown" (Luke 7:47).

4. John 12:1-8 : In John's Gospel, the anointing occurs six days before the Passover, again in Bethany, but at the home of Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Mary, the sister of Lazarus, takes a pound of expensive perfume made of pure nard and anoints Jesus' feet, wiping them with her hair. Judas Iscariot objects, citing the potential benefit to the poor. Jesus responds, "Leave her alone; she has kept this perfume in preparation for the day of My burial" (John 12:7).

Theological Significance

The anointing of Jesus carries profound theological implications. It serves as an act of worship and recognition of Jesus' messianic identity. The anointing prefigures His death and burial, symbolizing the preparation of His body for the grave. The act of anointing, traditionally associated with kings and priests, underscores Jesus' role as the Anointed One, the Messiah.

The differing details in each Gospel account highlight various aspects of Jesus' ministry and the responses of those around Him. The woman's act of devotion contrasts with the disciples' misunderstanding and Judas' betrayal, emphasizing themes of love, sacrifice, and the true value of worship.

Cultural and Historical Context

Anointing with oil was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, often associated with hospitality, honor, and consecration. The use of costly perfume signifies the woman's deep reverence and recognition of Jesus' unique status. The alabaster jar, a vessel for precious ointments, symbolizes the lavishness of her devotion.

In Jewish tradition, anointing was a ritual act for consecrating priests, prophets, and kings. By anointing Jesus, the woman acknowledges His divine authority and mission, aligning with the prophetic anticipation of the Messiah.

Conclusion

The anointing of Jesus is a multifaceted event that encapsulates themes of worship, sacrifice, and the acknowledgment of Jesus' messianic role. It invites believers to reflect on the nature of true devotion and the recognition of Jesus as the Christ, the Anointed One.