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The act of anointing Jesus with oil is a significant event in the Bible, mentioned in all four Gospels. However, there is some confusion regarding which Mary actually performed this act. Some scholars believe it was Mary Magdalene, while others argue it was Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. Let’s examine the evidence and dissect the biblical accounts to determine which Mary truly anointed Jesus with oil.
Examining the Evidence: Which Mary Anointed Jesus With Oil?
The Gospel of John refers to Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, as the one who anointed Jesus. In John 12:3, it is written, "Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair." This Mary is also mentioned in Luke 10:38-42, where she is seen sitting at the Lord’s feet, listening to His teachings. This evidence points towards Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, as the one who anointed Jesus with oil.
On the other hand, some scholars argue that it was Mary Magdalene who anointed Jesus with oil. In the Gospel of Mark and Matthew, an unnamed woman is described as pouring costly oil on Jesus’ head. Mary Magdalene is often associated with this act of anointing due to her close relationship with Jesus and her presence at the crucifixion. However, there is no explicit mention of Mary Magdalene anointing Jesus with oil in the Gospels, leading to speculation and debate among scholars.
Dissecting the Biblical Accounts: Who Truly Anointed Jesus?
While both Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, and Mary Magdalene have been suggested as the ones who anointed Jesus with oil, the evidence from the Gospels seems to lean towards Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. The detailed description in John’s Gospel, along with Mary’s close relationship with Jesus, makes her a strong candidate for the one who performed this significant act. Additionally, the consistent portrayal of Mary as a devoted follower of Jesus in other passages further supports this conclusion.
In conclusion, while the debate over which Mary anointed Jesus with oil may continue among scholars, the evidence presented in the Gospels points towards Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, as the one who performed this act. Her intimate relationship with Jesus and the detailed description of the event in John’s Gospel provide a compelling argument in favor of Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, as the woman who anointed Jesus with oil. Understanding the significance of this act adds depth to our appreciation of the devotion and love shown by Mary towards Jesus.
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