What does John 12:5 mean?

Explanation

John 12:5 is a verse within the narrative of the New Testament of the Christian Bible, where Judas Iscariot questions Mary the sister of Lazarus for using a costly ointment to anoint Jesus' feet.

The ointment in question was expensive, worth about three hundred denarii (pence), which was a considerable amount of money at the time – nearly a year's wages for a laborer.

On the surface, Judas appears to be concerned with the welfare of the poor, suggesting that the ointment could have been sold and the proceeds given to them.

However, the deeper intent reveals a level of hypocrisy, as subsequent texts indicate that Judas was not genuinely interested in the poor but was a thief and desired the money for himself.

Historical Context

The Book of John, where this verse is located, is one of the four canonical Gospels in the New Testament.

It is traditionally understood to have been written by John the Apostle.

This particular event is part of the narrative leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.

At this time, anointing with oil or ointment was a common practice for guests in a home, often done as a form of respect or honor.

The use of very expensive ointment, like that of pure nard, was unusual and signified an extraordinary level of honor bestowed upon Jesus.

Theological Insights

This verse offers various theological insights.

From a traditional Christian perspective, it emphasizes the idea that Jesus should be honored above all else, highlighting the significance of Jesus' identity and mission.

The contemplation of the value placed on the ointment versus the value placed on Jesus' presence points to the notion that Jesus is worth more than any worldly goods.

In a more critical theological view, the verse might suggest the prevalence of greed and deceitfulness even among Jesus' disciples, represented by Judas' false concern for the poor.

There is also the insight that good deeds can be misjudged by human standards, as Judas misjudges Mary's act of devotion.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse apply to modern life in several ways.

It reminds individuals of the importance of sincerity in actions, especially when it comes to charity and helping the poor.

It warns against hypocrisy, indicating that one's intentions should align with one's actions.

Additionally, the verse suggests that showing honor and love to others can sometimes transcend the monetary value of objects. This helps underline the significance of intangible acts of kindness and devotion over material wealth.

Cross-References

• Matthew 26:9-12: "For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor."
• Mark 14:4-5: "And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made?"
• John 13:29: "For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor."

Language Study

In the original Greek text of the New Testament, key words are worth examining:

• "Ointment" (Greek: μύρον, muron) – Often referred to an expensive perfume or anointing oil made from pure nard.
• "Sold" (Greek: πραθῆναι, prathēnai) – Refers to the act of selling, which implies a transaction or exchange for money.
• "Pence" (Greek: δηναρίων, dēnariōn) – The denarius was a silver coin used in the Roman currency system, equating to a day's wage for a laborer.
• "Poor" (Greek: πτωχοῖς, ptōchois) – This refers to those who are economically impoverished or needy.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, anointing with oil was a common practice, often associated with status and honor.

Religious comparisons can be found, for instance, in the Jewish tradition, where anointing is a significant ritual act used in the consecration of kings and priests.

In the context of charity, most ancient religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and others, placed a high value on the care of the poor, though the motives and methods could vary widely.

Scientific Perspectives

From a contemporary scientific perspective, the mention of the ointment could be analyzed in terms of its composition and value.

The pure nard mentioned in other gospel accounts was a costly substance, and advanced chemical analysis today can estimate its value and rarity based on extraction methods and regional availability.

Additionally, discourse on economic practices in ancient societies continues to evolve with new archeological discoveries, providing a better understanding of the monetary systems and the value of a denarius.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer interpretations of John 12:5:

• Theologians like Augustine viewed Judas' objection as hypocritical and self-serving rather than a true concern for the poor.
• Some contemporary scholars focus on the contrast between Judas and Mary, observing how the actions of both characters symbolize deeper truths about discipleship and priorities in the Christian life.
• Feminist theologians might highlight the role of Mary in this event, noting how her act of anointing disrupts traditional male-female roles and asserts her own agency in the narrative.