Why Did Mary Wipe Jesus' Feet With Her Hair

Why Did Mary Wipe Jesus' Feet with Her Hair? A Deeper Look into John 12:1-8

The act of Mary wiping Jesus' feet with her hair in John 12:1-8 is a powerful and poignant scene, brimming with symbolic meaning and sparking centuries of theological interpretation. It's a story that reveals much about Mary's devotion, Jesus' teachings on love and service, and the cultural context of the time. This article will delve into the reasons behind Mary's actions, exploring the historical, social, and spiritual significance of this dramatic gesture.

Understanding the Context: Six days before Passover, Jesus arrived in Bethany, a village near Jerusalem. He was welcomed by Simon, a leper, and his sister, Mary, who proceeded to perform an act of profound reverence. This wasn't simply a gesture of hospitality; it was a deeply symbolic act of worship with far-reaching implications.

The Significance of Anointing with Oil

In the first century, anointing with fragrant oil was a common practice, associated with various purposes:

• Hospitality: Guests were often offered anointing as a sign of welcome and respect.
• Healing: Oil was believed to have healing properties, both physical and spiritual.
• Honoring Royalty/Divinity: Anointing was a ritual reserved for royalty and, in some religious contexts, for those considered divinely appointed.

Mary's use of nard, a very expensive perfume, further underscores the lavish nature of her act. This wasn't a casual gesture; it was an extravagant demonstration of her unwavering faith and devotion.

The Symbolism of Hair

The use of her hair to wipe Jesus' feet is particularly striking. In the culture of the time, a woman's hair was considered a symbol of beauty, modesty, and even shame. To use it in this manner was an act of complete self-giving, humility, and profound respect. It demonstrated a willingness to surrender her own dignity and social standing for the sake of her Lord.

Judas's Objection: A Contrast in Motives

Judas Iscariot's objection to Mary's actions highlights a crucial contrast. He argues that the expensive perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. While seemingly charitable, his objection reveals his own materialistic and self-serving nature. His concern wasn't about the poor; it was about the misuse of resources in his eyes. He missed the spiritual significance of the act.

Jesus' Defense: An Act of Love and Preparation

Jesus defends Mary's actions, emphasizing that her act of love and devotion was a foreshadowing of his impending death and burial. The anointing, he says, was an act of preparation for his burial, an act of love that transcends material concerns. This underlines the spiritual value of Mary's act against Judas's pragmatic perspective.

A Reflection on Faith and Service

Mary's act serves as a powerful example of faith, selfless service, and extravagant devotion. It invites us to consider our own motivations and how we show our love and devotion to God and others. The story reminds us that true worship isn't always measured in material terms but in the depth of our commitment and the sacrifices we are willing to make. Her actions exemplify the kind of radical, unwavering faith that Jesus himself championed.

In conclusion, Mary's act of wiping Jesus' feet with her hair wasn't merely a gesture of hospitality; it was a profoundly symbolic act of worship reflecting unwavering faith, selfless service, and a willingness to surrender her dignity for the sake of her Lord. It stands in stark contrast to Judas's materialistic perspective and serves as a timeless lesson on the nature of true devotion.