Matthew 26:8
But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?
Original Language Analysis
ἰδόντες
saw
G1492
ἰδόντες
saw
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
1 of 12
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτοῦ
when his
G846
αὐτοῦ
when his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 12
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ἠγανάκτησαν
it they had indignation
G23
ἠγανάκτησαν
it they had indignation
Strong's:
G23
Word #:
6 of 12
to be greatly afflicted, i.e., (figuratively) indignant
λέγοντες
saying
G3004
λέγοντες
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Εἰς
To
G1519
Εἰς
To
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
8 of 12
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τί
what purpose
G5101
τί
what purpose
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
9 of 12
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
The disciples' economic objection reflects their continued expectation of an earthly messianic kingdom where resources would fund social programs. They still don't understand that Jesus came to die, not to establish political reform. Their pragmatism reveals misplaced values.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you considered extravagant devotion to Christ as 'wasteful' compared to more 'practical' uses of resources?
- How does Judas's protest reveal that orthodox religious language can mask a heart devoid of genuine love for Jesus?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
When his disciples saw it, they had indignation—The Greek aganakteo (ἀγανακτέω) means 'greatly displeased' or 'moved with indignation.' John 12:4-5 identifies Judas Iscariot as the primary objector, though Matthew's plural suggests others joined his protest. Their outrage masks spiritual blindness—they fail to grasp the infinite worth of Christ.
To what purpose is this waste?—The word apoleia (ἀπώλεια) means 'destruction' or 'loss,' the same word used for eternal perdition. Tragically ironic: they call worship of Christ 'waste' while Judas wastes himself through betrayal for thirty pieces of silver. What seems wasteful to carnal minds is precious to God.