Topical Bible: Ointment: Not Sacred: The Alabaster Container of

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The use of ointment in biblical times was widespread, serving various purposes from medicinal to cosmetic. However, one of the most notable references to ointment in the New Testament is the account of the alabaster container of ointment, which is not considered sacred but holds significant spiritual and symbolic meaning.

The alabaster container of ointment is prominently featured in the Gospels, particularly in the accounts of a woman anointing Jesus. In Matthew 26:7 , it is recorded: "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." Similarly, Mark 14:3 describes the scene: "While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on His head."

The alabaster container itself was a vessel made from a fine-grained, translucent stone, often used in antiquity to store precious ointments and perfumes. The material was valued for its ability to preserve the fragrance and quality of its contents. The act of breaking the jar, as noted in Mark's account, signifies the complete and lavish offering of the ointment, symbolizing total devotion and sacrifice.

In the Gospel of Luke, a similar event is recounted, though with some variations. Luke 7:37-38 states: "When a sinful woman from that town learned that Jesus was dining there, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears and wipe them with her hair. Then she kissed His feet and anointed them with the perfume." This passage highlights the woman's repentance and worship, using the ointment as an expression of her love and gratitude toward Jesus.

The alabaster container of ointment, while not sacred in itself, becomes a powerful symbol of worship, repentance, and the recognition of Jesus' divine authority. The costly nature of the ointment underscores the depth of the woman's sacrifice and devotion. Jesus Himself acknowledges the significance of this act in Matthew 26:13 : "Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached in all the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her."

The alabaster container of ointment thus serves as a poignant reminder of the call to offer our best to Christ, reflecting a heart of worship and surrender.

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Matthew 26:7
There came to him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.
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