Topical Encyclopedia Perfume-boxes, also known as alabaster jars or flasks, are containers mentioned in the Bible that were used to store precious ointments and perfumes. These boxes were often made from alabaster, a fine-grained, translucent form of gypsum or calcite, which was highly valued in ancient times for its beauty and ability to preserve the fragrance of the contents.Biblical References: 1. Luke 7:37-38 : "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 use of a perfume-box by a woman who anointed Jesus' feet, demonstrating her repentance and devotion. The act of breaking the jar and pouring out the perfume symbolizes the woman's total surrender and worship. 2. Mark 14:3 : "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 open the jar and poured it on His head." This account, similar to the one in Luke, emphasizes the value and significance of the perfume, as well as the sacrificial nature of the woman's act. The breaking of the jar signifies the complete offering of something precious to honor Jesus. 3. Matthew 26:7 : "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." This passage reiterates the theme of anointing Jesus with costly perfume, underscoring the importance of recognizing His divine authority and preparing Him for His burial. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, perfumes and ointments were luxury items, often used in religious rituals, personal grooming, and burial practices. The use of perfume-boxes was common among the wealthy, and the contents were considered valuable possessions. The breaking of a perfume-box to anoint someone was a significant gesture, indicating honor, respect, and devotion. The alabaster jars themselves were crafted with care, often sealed to preserve the fragrance. The act of breaking the seal or the jar was symbolic of the outpouring of one's heart and resources. In the biblical accounts, the use of perfume-boxes in anointing Jesus serves as a profound expression of faith and recognition of His messianic role. Theological Significance: The accounts involving perfume-boxes in the Gospels highlight themes of repentance, worship, and the acknowledgment of Jesus' identity and mission. The costly nature of the perfume and the willingness to use it for Jesus reflect the depth of love and commitment expected of His followers. These acts of anointing prefigure Jesus' death and burial, pointing to His ultimate sacrifice for humanity. Perfume-boxes, therefore, serve as a powerful symbol of the believer's call to offer their best to Christ, holding nothing back in their devotion and service. Concordance Perfume-boxes (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 3:20 Thesaurus Perfume-boxes (1 Occurrence)Perfume-boxes. Perfume-altar, Perfume-boxes. Perfumed . Multi-Version Concordance Perfume-boxes (1 Occurrence). Isaiah ... /p/perfume-boxes.htm - 6k Perfumed (10 Occurrences) Tablet (7 Occurrences) Perfume-altar (1 Occurrence) Boxes (3 Occurrences) Box (13 Occurrences) Corselets (1 Occurrence) Armlets (3 Occurrences) Amulets (1 Occurrence) Arm-chains (1 Occurrence) Resources What is an alabaster box? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian wear perfume / cologne? | GotQuestions.org What is spikenard in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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