Who Anointed Jesus’ Feet
Today we will talk about who anointed Jesus’ feet. Many Christians do not know what this means. The act of anointing has deep roots in biblical tradition, symbolizing honor, respect, and healing. It is a gesture reflecting devotion and a profound connection to God. Throughout the scriptures, anointment illustrates the significance of someone, indicating choice, special honor, or dedication to a divine purpose. As we explore the scripture, we will soon see that this heartfelt act towards Jesus reveals a beautiful story of love, humility, and service. Be in a mode of meditation as we read through God’s Word.
Understanding the Act of Anointing
When we talk about anointing, we’re referring to the act of pouring aromatic oil or anointing substances on someone. In Hebrew culture, anointing has several meanings, including kadash, which means to consecrate or set apart for a special purpose (Exodus 29:7). The Greek equivalent, chrio, also signifies the act of anointing for a divine calling (Luke 4:18). Both words express God’s blessing and purpose over a person’s life, emphasizing that anointed individuals, like priests and kings, have a sacred mission ahead of them.
In the Bible, anointing someone’s feet is a unique act that conveys submission and reverence. It was not only a practical gesture of hospitality, especially in the dusty, arid climate of Israel, but it also served as a spiritual declaration. Foot washing and anointing were performed to honor guests, showing deep respect in the Hebrew culture (John 13:5). The presence of aromatic oils added a fragrant enrichment, elevating the significance of the act. The weight of such a gesture emphasizes the importance of the one who received it, elevating anointing from merely an act of kindness to a declaration of worship and devotion.
Throughout the Gospels, we see a compelling story of a woman who anointed Jesus’ feet. This event takes place in two notable instances: the tactical setting of Simon the Pharisee’s home (Luke 7:36-50) and during the preparation for Jesus’ burial in the house of Lazarus (John 12:1-8). Both events, although distinct, emphasize a woman’s expression of love, humility, and recognition of Jesus’ divine role.
The heart of anointing Jesus’ feet highlights the deep relational aspect between Jesus and His followers, illustrating vulnerability and love. The anointer feels empowered to abandon societal expectations to demonstrate their faith, bringing to the forefront the transformative impact of Jesus’ acceptance and grace. The act stands as a moving testament to the liberalness of God’s love, one that rests not on social standing but on the heart. Let us recall a few pertinent Bible verses as we think about the fundamental meaning of anointing:
– Exodus 30:30: “And you shall anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests.”
– Luke 4:18: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.”
– John 13:5: “Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet.”
Historical Perspectives on Anointing
The practice of anointing carries historical roots dating back into the Old Testament, where it was a solemn ritual designed to mark individuals for a divine purpose. When Samuel anointed Saul as king (1 Samuel 10:1), it was a divine selection—a shift in leadership that would shape the future of Israel. Similarly, God instructed Moses to anoint Aaron as a priest, signifying the importance of his role in the spiritual life of the nation (Exodus 29:7). These events emphasize anointing as a divine act that establishes a people’s leadership and spiritual direction, symbolizing sacred authority and purpose.
In Judaism, the concept of anointing was pivotal to the priesthood and later to kingship. The Messiah—literally meaning “the anointed one”—is a central figure, prophesied to be distinctively anointed (Isaiah 61:1). This framework provided a rich backdrop to the events surrounding Jesus. Observing Jesus as the Messiah means recognizing His anointing for the ultimate divine task: to bring redemption and salvation to humanity. Acts of anointing through the Gospels mirror this understanding of sacred purpose and divine mission.
The historical significance of such acts becomes more noteworthy when we approach Jesus’ anointing. While religious leaders often sought out political power backed by societal standards, Jesus’ mission and the anointing He received conveyed a deep affection for the marginalized, the weary, and those in search of redemption. The contrast is striking. The anointing Jesus received signifies a response to what He represented—a divine calling to serve those in need.
Reflecting on Jesus’ time, the Jewish culture heavily influenced its righteous practices and communal living. Anointing during meals was a regular etiquette, but the extravagant devotion displayed by the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet starkly stands out. Unlike the typical perfunctory acts of hospitality, this woman’s anointing was saturated with love, humility, and sincerity—a declaration of faith unbound by societal norms.
Some elements to keep in mind as we review the historical setting: Jesus was approaching the final days of His earthly ministry, making the anointing not only an act of love but a prophetic foreshadowing of His impending sacrifice on the cross. It was during this turbulent time that He was met with both adoration and opposition, and yet, the anointing moment captured the essence of who He was: the unprecedented embodiment of God’s love.
Scriptural References of the Anointing Event
Several scriptural accounts detail the alluring, heartfelt gesture of washing and anointing Jesus’ feet, providing us with rich insights into its meaning. The most notable occasion appears in Luke’s Gospel, where a woman—often identified as a sinner or a person of ill repute—enters the home of Simon the Pharisee (Luke 7:36-50). Unashamed and unabashed, she approaches Jesus with tears flowing from her eyes, literally washing His feet with her tears, drying them with her hair, and pouring precious ointment upon them.
This remarkable act of service conveys a plethora of emotions on various levels. The woman’s tears reflect genuine remorsefulness, signaling repentance and faith grounded in her recognition of Jesus as Master and Redeemer. Her action transcends mere symbolism, as it illustrates a desire for forgiveness and transformation that comes with true repentance, affirming the love and acceptance Jesus extends to those the world deems unworthy.
In this scene, Jesus’ righteous awareness of the Pharisee’s judgment makes the narrative more engaging. Despite the crowd’s disdain, Jesus doesn’t respond in condemnation. Instead, He offers forgiveness, demonstrating God’s lavish grace to those who sincerely seek it. Here is a collection of verses for deeper understanding:
– Luke 7:44-46: “Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, ‘Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair.’”
– Luke 7:47: “Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.”
John’s Gospel recounts a separate but transformative event, where Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, anoints Jesus’ feet at the dinner table (John 12:1-8). This occasion is poignant for its deep symbolism and love within familial bonds, further significant as it occurs just before Jesus’ crucifixion. The anointing act foreshadows the sacrificial death headed for Jesus, mirroring the act of washing but set against the impending reality of the Resurrection.
In this precious moment, the fragrance of the ointment fills the room, a metaphor for the impact of Jesus’ presence—a reminder to those gathered of His impending sacrifice for sinners. The extravagance of anointing with costly perfume not only highlights Mary’s love but also serves as a challenge to understand the depth of Christ’s mission.
– John 12:3: “Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”
– John 12:7: “Jesus said, ‘Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial.’”
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on who anointed Jesus’ feet opens up a beautiful tapestry of love, humility, and worship. The two events surrounding anointing in the Bible showcase not only the act of devotion but the understanding that Jesus is the central figure of grace, impacting the lives of all who genuinely seek Him. Whether it was the unnamed woman or Mary of Bethany, both expressed a profound understanding of who Jesus is—a Savior who brings hope, acceptance, and renewal.
As we conclude, let us remember the significance of anointing Jesus’ feet. It highlights a divine relationship, illustrating how we can express our love and devotion through simple acts of kindness, service, and humility. We are reminded that Jesus loves us, no matter our past, and His grace empowers us to find our purpose, serving as lights in a world hungry for love and acceptance.
Ultimately, we observe the incredible breadth of the Gospel, revealing that true anointing involves worshipping Jesus with our whole hearts. May we strive to cultivate a heart of humility, love, and service, reflecting the heart of Christ in all we do.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4