Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, alabaster was a precious material often used to create containers for storing ointments, perfumes, and other valuable substances. Alabaster is a fine-grained, translucent form of gypsum or calcite, typically white or delicately tinted. Its use in crafting boxes and jars is noted for its ability to preserve the contents from spoilage and its aesthetic appeal.Biblical References: One of the most notable references to an alabaster box in the Bible is found in the accounts of the anointing of Jesus by a woman, as recorded in the Gospels. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is written: "While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He was reclining at the table" (Matthew 26:6-7). This act of devotion and worship is significant, as the alabaster box contained a costly perfume, often identified as pure nard, which was used to anoint Jesus. Similarly, the Gospel of Mark recounts: "While Jesus was in Bethany reclining at the table in the home of Simon the leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke open the jar and poured it on His head" (Mark 14:3). The breaking of the alabaster jar signifies the totality of the woman's offering, as the jar could not be resealed, symbolizing her complete devotion and sacrifice. In the Gospel of Luke, a sinful woman anoints Jesus' feet with perfume from an alabaster jar: "When a sinful woman from that town learned that Jesus was dining there, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume" (Luke 7:37). This act of humility and repentance is met with Jesus' forgiveness, highlighting the transformative power of faith and repentance. Cultural and Historical Context: Alabaster was highly valued in ancient cultures, including Egypt and the Near East, for its beauty and durability. The use of alabaster boxes in biblical narratives underscores the significance of the contents they held, often reserved for special occasions or acts of worship. The breaking of an alabaster box to anoint Jesus is a profound gesture, reflecting the depth of love and reverence the women had for Him. The alabaster box, therefore, serves as a symbol of sacrifice, worship, and the recognition of Jesus' divine authority. The narratives involving alabaster boxes emphasize the importance of giving one's best to God, as well as the acknowledgment of Jesus' role as the Messiah. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the alabaster box and its contents represent the believer's call to offer their most precious possessions and their very selves to Christ. The act of anointing Jesus with the contents of an alabaster box is a foreshadowing of His burial, as Jesus Himself acknowledges in the Gospel of Mark: "She has done what she could to anoint My body in advance of My burial" (Mark 14:8). This prophetic act highlights the understanding of Jesus' impending sacrifice and the preparation for His death and resurrection. In summary, the alabaster box in biblical accounts is a powerful symbol of devotion, sacrifice, and the recognition of Jesus' divine mission. Its presence in the Gospels serves as a reminder of the call to worship and the offering of one's best to the Lord. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:7There came to him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. Nave's Topical Index Mark 14:3 Luke 7:37 Library The Alabaster Box The Box of Ointment. Fragrant Graces "She Hath done what She Could. " The Feast at Simon's House The Last Journey to Jerusalem. Despised and Rejected by Friend and Foe The Fulness of Christ Jesus and the Bethany Sisters. Use what You Have. Resources What is the myth of Pandora's Box, and how does it relate to the biblical creation account? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is an alabaster box? | GotQuestions.org What is the No True Scotsman fallacy? | GotQuestions.org Box: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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