Matthew 26:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:7
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.
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, fellowship, worship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-75: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 26:7
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.
Analysis
There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment—John 12:3 identifies her as Mary of Bethany. The alabastron (ἀλάβαστρον) was a flask carved from translucent alabaster stone, sealed to preserve aromatic oil. The ointment was nardos pistikos (νάρδος πιστικός), pure nard imported from the Himalayas—Mark 14:5 values it at 300 denarii (a year's wages for a laborer).
And poured it on his head, as he sat at meat—This prophetic act anointed Jesus as Messiah ('Christ' means 'Anointed One'). Kings were anointed on the head (1 Samuel 10:1, 16:13). Mary grasps what the disciples miss: Jesus is about to die. Her extravagant worship prefigures His burial anointing.
Historical Context
Nard (spikenard) came from the Nardostachys jatamansi plant in India/Nepal, making it extraordinarily expensive. To break the sealed alabaster flask meant pouring out everything—the ointment couldn't be preserved for another use. This was total, unreserved devotion.
Reflection
- How does Mary's 'waste' of precious ointment challenge our utilitarian calculations in worship and our concept of what God is worth?
- What spiritual insight enabled Mary to understand Jesus's approaching death when the disciples remained blind to it?
Cross-References
- Related: Song of Solomon 1:3
- Parallel theme: Psalms 133:2, Ecclesiastes 9:8, Isaiah 57:9, Luke 7:46