Topical Encyclopedia The event of Mary weeping and washing the feet of Jesus is a profound moment recorded in the Gospels, illustrating themes of repentance, devotion, and the acknowledgment of Jesus' divine authority. This act is often associated with Mary of Bethany, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, although some traditions have conflated her with other women in the Gospels.Biblical Account: The account of Mary washing Jesus' feet is primarily found in the Gospel of John. In John 12:1-3 , it is written: "Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom He had raised from the dead. So they hosted a dinner for Jesus there. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with Him. Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume." This passage highlights Mary's act of anointing Jesus with costly perfume, an act of extravagant love and worship. Her actions are a demonstration of humility and reverence, as she uses her hair to wipe His feet, a gesture of deep personal devotion and submission. Theological Significance: Mary's weeping and washing of Jesus' feet is rich with theological implications. It is an expression of repentance and gratitude, acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah and Savior. Her actions prefigure Jesus' own sacrificial death and burial, as He Himself interprets in John 12:7 : "Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "She was intended to keep this perfume to prepare for the day of My burial." The act of washing feet in the ancient Near Eastern context was a task reserved for the lowliest of servants. By performing this act, Mary demonstrates a profound understanding of Jesus' teaching on servanthood and humility, as later exemplified by Jesus Himself when He washes the feet of His disciples (John 13:1-17). Contrast with Judas Iscariot: The narrative also contrasts Mary's devotion with the reaction of Judas Iscariot, who criticizes the act as wasteful. In John 12:4-6 , Judas questions why the perfume was not sold and the money given to the poor. The Gospel writer notes Judas' ulterior motives, highlighting the purity of Mary's intentions against the backdrop of Judas' impending betrayal. Symbolism and Legacy: Mary's act of weeping and washing Jesus' feet has been interpreted as a symbol of the believer's response to Christ's love and forgiveness. It serves as a model of worship that is both sacrificial and sincere, emphasizing the importance of placing Christ above material concerns. Throughout Christian history, this event has inspired countless believers to emulate Mary's example of devotion and humility. It underscores the call to worship Jesus with one's whole heart, mind, and resources, recognizing Him as the ultimate source of grace and redemption. 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 John 11:2,33 Library Mary of Magdala. Jesus' Feet Anointed in the House of a Pharisee. The Welcome visitor The Feast at Simon's House The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour (Nt Apocrypha) Repentance An Earnest Invitation Jesus, the Great Object of Astonishment. The Daughters of Jerusalem The Death of the Blessed virgin Mary at Ephesus Resources Who was Rachel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWill there be tears in heaven? | GotQuestions.org What is the Massacre of the Innocents? | GotQuestions.org Weeping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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