Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany (John 12:1-11)

Six days before Passover, Jesus arrives in Bethany, where Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead, is living. A dinner is given in his honor. Martha, ever faithful in her role of service (διακονέει [diakoneō]), tends to the needs of those present. Meanwhile, Mary performs a profound and symbolic act: she anoints Jesus' feet with an expensive perfume (μύρον [myron]) of pure nard, wiping his feet with her hair in a gesture of deep humility and devotion.

This act of anointing (ἀλείφω [aleiphō]) transcends mere hospitality. It anticipates Jesus' death and burial, recognizing that he is the Messiah who must suffer. Mary's perfume (μύρον [myron]) is not wasted; it is a prophetic action that honors the sacrificial path Jesus must walk.

Judas Iscariot, identified here as one of Jesus' disciples (μαθητής [mathētēs]), objects to the extravagance, suggesting that the perfume could have been sold and the proceeds given to the poor. Yet the Gospel writer clarifies that Judas' concern is not genuine. His heart is divided; he is a thief already entangled in betrayal. In Judas, we see a distortion of true discipleship: external piety masking inner corruption.

Jesus responds by defending Mary. He instructs Judas to leave her alone, emphasizing that the poor will always be present, but that he will not. Mary's act is thus framed as preparation for his burial, pointing toward the imminent fulfillment of his mission. Her faith contrasts sharply with Judas' greed and hypocrisy.

The theological thrust of the passage is intensified by the reaction of the broader community. Many Jews come to see both Jesus and Lazarus, whose resurrection serves as a living testimony to Jesus' authority over death. The chief priests, in response, plot not only against Jesus but against Lazarus as well. His very existence threatens their power and draws many to faith (πίστις [pistis]) in Jesus.

This passage richly weaves together themes of love, betrayal, service, and death. Through the acts of service (διακονέει [diakoneō]) and anointing (ἀλείφω [aleiphō]), we encounter two models of response to Jesus: humble devotion and deceitful self-interest. Mary's perfume (μύρον [myron]) poured out without reserve reflects the appropriate response to the self-giving love Jesus is about to display on the cross. Judas' feigned concern for the poor reveals a heart estranged from true faith (πίστις [pistis]).

In John 12:1-11, the tension that will lead to the Passion is palpably escalating. As Jesus moves closer to his hour of glory, the lines between belief and unbelief, between faith (πίστις [pistis]) and rejection, are drawn ever more sharply. The passage invites readers to recognize, as Mary did, the true identity and mission of Jesus, and to respond with wholehearted devotion.