Matthew 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.

Matthew 26:7 (KJV)

Context

This verse places us in Bethany, days before the crucifixion, as Jesus reclines at a meal in the house of Simon the leper. An unnamed woman approaches Him with an alabaster box—a vessel of light, almost transparent stone used to preserve costly ointments—and pours its very precious perfume on His head. The setting and timing mark this as a moment of solemn significance.

Meaning

Matthew does not name the woman, but the parallel account in John 12:3 identifies her as Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. Her act of anointing Jesus’ head was a gesture of honor and consecration, often reserved for kings and priests. By using something so valuable, she expressed profound reverence and acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah. The extravagance of her gift was not waste but worship.

Biblical connections

Jesus later defends her action, saying she has anointed Him for His burial (Matthew 26:12). In Jewish custom, anointing with spices prepared a body for burial, so her deed pointed directly to His impending death and redemptive mission. The disciples’ objection, especially Judas’ complaint about the poor, contrasts selfishness with selfless love. Jesus declares that her act will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached (Matthew 26:13).

Application

This woman’s sacrificial worship challenges us to examine how we express love for Christ. Her offering was costly, personal, and unreserved. She gave what was precious to her, not what was convenient. Her example calls us to prioritize Jesus above material cost and to serve Him with genuine devotion, even when others misunderstand or criticize.

Reflection

The anointing foreshadows the cross. By preparing Jesus for burial, the woman’s act underscores His awareness of the coming sacrifice and the purpose of His mission—to die for humanity’s sins and offer salvation. Her worship was not only beautiful but prophetic, reminding us that true devotion to Christ is rooted in recognizing who He is and what He came to do.