Topical Encyclopedia The act of kissing the feet of Jesus by the penitent woman is a profound moment recorded in the Gospel of Luke, illustrating themes of repentance, humility, and forgiveness. This event is found in Luke 7:36-50, where a woman, known to be a sinner, approaches Jesus during a meal at the house of Simon the Pharisee.Context and Setting The narrative unfolds in a Pharisee's home, where Jesus has been invited to dine. The presence of a woman with a sinful reputation in such a setting is significant, as it underscores the social and religious boundaries she crosses to reach Jesus. Her actions are a stark contrast to the host's lack of customary hospitality, highlighting the depth of her repentance and devotion. The Act of Kissing The woman’s actions are described in Luke 7:37-38 : "When a sinful woman from that town learned that Jesus was dining there, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears and wipe them with her hair. Then she kissed His feet and anointed them with the perfume." Kissing the feet of Jesus is an expression of deep reverence and submission. In the cultural context of the time, such an act was a demonstration of humility and penitence, often reserved for showing honor to a person of great importance. The woman’s tears and the use of her hair to wipe Jesus' feet further emphasize her contrition and the sincerity of her repentance. Symbolism and Theological Significance The woman's actions symbolize a profound transformation and acknowledgment of her need for forgiveness. Her use of expensive perfume to anoint Jesus' feet signifies the value she places on her relationship with Him, contrasting with her previous life choices. This act of worship and devotion is met with Jesus' acknowledgment of her faith and forgiveness of her sins. In Luke 7:47-48 , Jesus says, "Therefore I tell you, because her many sins have been forgiven, she has loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little." Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." Response and Reaction The reaction of those present, particularly Simon the Pharisee, highlights the tension between societal norms and the radical grace that Jesus embodies. Simon's internal judgment of both the woman and Jesus is addressed by Jesus through a parable, illustrating the depth of forgiveness and love that transcends social and religious expectations. Implications for Believers This account serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of repentance and the boundless grace available through faith in Jesus Christ. It challenges believers to examine their own hearts, encouraging a posture of humility and gratitude for the forgiveness offered by Christ. The woman's example is a call to approach Jesus with sincerity and devotion, trusting in His mercy and love. Nave's Topical Index Luke 7:38And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Nave's Topical Index Library Saving Faith The Two Debtors. An Earnest Invitation C. The Third Period. Chs. 6:12 to 8:56 Go in Peace The Crucifixion. Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; Lydia, the First European Convert Beginning at Jerusalem. --Luke xxiv. 47. The Jerusalem Sinner Saved; Resources Questions about Psalms | GotQuestions.orgWhy does Solomon refer to his wife as his sister (Song of Solomon 4:9)? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son? | GotQuestions.org Kiss: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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