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Book of Matthew - Chapter 26 - Verse 7

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

Meaning

This verse from the Bible describes a powerful act of devotion and sacrifice. In the context of the story, Jesus is dining at the home of a man named Simon, when a woman approaches him with an alabaster box of very expensive ointment. This woman then proceeds to pour the ointment on Jesus' head as an act of worship. This gesture is significant because the ointment was extremely precious, yet the woman was willing to use it all on Jesus as a sign of her deep love and reverence for him. This act symbolizes the woman's willingness to give her very best to Jesus, holding nothing back. It serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrificial giving and devotion in the Christian faith. Through this act, the woman demonstrates her understanding of Jesus' true worth and her desire to honor and glorify him above all else.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the act of extravagant worship towards Jesus. The woman in the story, often identified as Mary Magdalene, comes to Jesus with an alabaster box of very precious ointment, which she pours on his head as he sits at the table. This act can be seen as an expression of her deep love and reverence for Jesus, as well as an acknowledgment of his divinity. The use of the term "very precious ointment" suggests that this act was not only lavish in material value but also in the spiritual meaning behind it. The pouring of the ointment can symbolize the pouring out of oneself completely before Jesus, offering all that one has in worship and adoration. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of giving our best to God and showing reverence for his presence in our lives.

American Standard Version

there came unto him a woman having an alabaster cruse of exceeding precious ointment, and she poured it upon his head, as he sat at meat.
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