Topical Bible: The Hair: Often Expensively Anointed

◄ The Hair: Often Expensively Anointed ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, hair held significant cultural and spiritual symbolism, often associated with beauty, strength, and consecration. The anointing of hair with expensive oils and perfumes is a recurring theme in Scripture, reflecting both acts of devotion and social customs.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Hair was considered a symbol of glory and honor, particularly for women. In 1 Corinthians 11:15, Paul writes, "But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory. For long hair is given to her as a covering." This passage underscores the cultural importance of hair as a sign of dignity and respect.

Anointing as a Sign of Honor and Devotion

The anointing of hair with costly oils was a practice that signified honor, hospitality, and devotion. In the Gospels, we find notable instances where individuals anointed Jesus with expensive perfumes, often focusing on His head or feet, which were sometimes wiped with hair.

One of the most profound examples is found in the account of Mary of Bethany. In John 12:3, it is recorded, "Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume." This act of anointing was a demonstration of Mary's deep love and reverence for Jesus, using her hair as a tool of worship and humility.

Similarly, in Luke 7:37-38, a sinful woman anoints Jesus' feet with perfume and wipes them with her hair, an act that Jesus acknowledges as a profound expression of repentance and love.

Symbolism of Anointing

The use of expensive oils in anointing was not merely a gesture of luxury but carried deep spiritual significance. Anointing with oil was often associated with consecration and blessing. In the Old Testament, priests and kings were anointed as a sign of their divine appointment and empowerment by God (Exodus 30:30, 1 Samuel 16:13).

In the New Testament, the anointing of Jesus by women with costly perfumes foreshadows His burial and signifies His role as the Anointed One, the Messiah. Jesus Himself acknowledges this in Matthew 26:12, saying, "By pouring this perfume on Me, she has prepared My body for burial."

Social and Economic Implications

The use of expensive perfumes and oils for anointing also highlights the economic implications of such acts. The cost of the perfume used by Mary of Bethany was significant, as noted by Judas Iscariot in John 12:5, "Why wasn’t this perfume sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?" This remark underscores the value of the perfume, equivalent to nearly a year's wages, indicating the sacrificial nature of Mary's devotion.

Conclusion

The anointing of hair with expensive oils in biblical narratives serves as a powerful symbol of honor, devotion, and spiritual significance. It reflects the cultural values of the time and underscores the profound acts of worship and love directed towards Jesus, the Anointed One.