Mark 14:5 – “It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly.”
Extended Explanation
This verse highlights the reaction of those who were offended by the woman’s act of pouring expensive perfume on Jesus. The perfume, made of pure nard, was worth more than 300 denarii—about a year’s wages for a common laborer. From a practical point of view, selling it and giving the money to the poor seemed like a more reasonable and socially acceptable option. Because of this, they rebuked the woman harshly, likely viewing her actions as irresponsible or wasteful.
But what they failed to understand was the significance of what she was doing. Her act of devotion went beyond practicality—it was a powerful expression of worship and recognition of who Jesus was. While they focused on the material value of the perfume, she understood the spiritual value of honoring Jesus in that moment.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, helping the poor was a key aspect of religious life. The Law of Moses instructed people to be generous toward the poor (Deuteronomy 15:11), and giving alms was seen as a virtuous act. The suggestion to sell the perfume and give the money to the poor would have aligned with these cultural and religious expectations.
However, during the time of Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread, there would have been even more emphasis on charitable acts, as many pilgrims gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate God’s deliverance. The criticism directed at the woman reflects the tension between what was socially expected and what was spiritually significant. Judas Iscariot, who was one of the main critics (John 12:4-6), had ulterior motives—he was more concerned with stealing from the money than actually helping the poor.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the importance of priorities in worship. While serving the poor is essential, the critics of the woman failed to see that worshiping Jesus was even more important in that moment. Jesus wasn’t dismissing the need to help the poor (Mark 14:7), but He was making it clear that honoring Him should come first. This teaches that devotion to Christ is the foundation of all good works. Without worship and faith in Him, even charitable actions can miss their deeper purpose.
Theologically, this passage also points to the idea that true worship sometimes requires extravagant acts of faith. The woman’s actions reflect the kind of wholehearted love and sacrifice that God desires from His followers. Her worship was not limited by what others deemed practical—it was driven by a genuine understanding of who Jesus was and what He was about to do for the world.
Literary Analysis
Mark’s narrative contrasts the woman’s selfless act of love with the self-centered attitudes of her critics. The phrase “rebuked her harshly” conveys the intensity of their disapproval. The harshness suggests that they were not merely offering constructive criticism but were genuinely angry. This emphasizes the emotional tension in the scene and sets up Jesus’ defense of the woman in the following verses.
The repetition of the perfume’s value (“more than a year’s wages”) underscores just how extravagant the woman’s offering was. It wasn’t a small or symbolic gesture—it was a costly, once-in-a-lifetime sacrifice, making the criticism even more significant.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 15:11 – God commands His people to be generous to the poor, showing that concern for the poor is an important part of faith.
- Matthew 6:1-4 – Jesus teaches about giving to the poor with the right motives, not for public recognition.
- John 12:4-6 – Judas criticizes the woman, but his concern is insincere, as he was known to steal from the money bag.
- Luke 10:38-42 – The story of Mary and Martha, where Mary’s act of sitting at Jesus’ feet is prioritized over practical service.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges Christians to evaluate their priorities. While good deeds and charitable works are important, they should flow out of a heart that is first devoted to Christ. If we place practical concerns above worship and faith, we risk missing the deeper purpose of our actions.
The woman’s example also teaches that acts of faith and worship may sometimes be misunderstood or criticized by others. People may question why you devote your time, resources, or energy to spiritual practices instead of focusing on what seems “more practical.” But this passage reminds us that honoring Jesus is always the right choice.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is reflected in the way He values the heart behind our actions. While those around the woman criticized her, Jesus defended her, showing that God cares more about genuine devotion than outward appearances or human approval. God’s love is patient, understanding, and willing to defend those who act out of sincere love for Him.
Additionally, God’s love is evident in the way He provides opportunities for worship and devotion. The woman recognized this unique moment to honor Jesus, and God accepted her offering as meaningful and beautiful.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points directly to Jesus’ role as the Messiah who would soon sacrifice Himself for the salvation of the world. The perfume poured on Him was symbolic of His coming death and burial (Mark 14:8). The woman’s act of anointing Him shows that she understood, at least in part, the significance of what was about to happen.
The criticism she faced mirrors the way Jesus was often misunderstood and rejected. Just as the people around her failed to see the value of her offering, many people failed to recognize the importance of Jesus’ mission. But Jesus embraced her act of love, just as He willingly embraced the cross.
- Mark 14:8 – Jesus explains that the woman’s act was a preparation for His burial.
- Isaiah 53:3 – A prophecy about the rejection of the Messiah, reflecting how Jesus and those who honored Him often faced criticism.
- Ephesians 5:2 – Jesus’ sacrifice is described as a fragrant offering to God, connecting to the imagery of the perfume.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt misunderstood or criticized for acts of faith or worship? How did you respond?
- What does this passage teach you about the importance of placing worship and devotion to Christ above practical concerns?
- Are there any “extravagant” acts of worship you feel God is calling you to make, even if others might not understand?
- How can you balance helping the poor and serving others with maintaining a heart centered on Christ?
- What does the woman’s example teach you about giving your best to God without holding back?