A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus

(Matthew 26:6–13, Mark 14:3–9, John 12:1–8)

Then one of the Pharisees invited [Jesus] to eat with him, and He entered the Pharisee’s house [and] reclined at the table. 37 When vvv vvv a sinful woman from [that] town learned that [Jesus] was dining vvv vvv vvv vvv [there], she brought an alabaster jar of perfume. 38 [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.

39 

When the Pharisee who had invited [Jesus] saw [this], he said to himself“If this [man] were a prophet,[fn] He would know who [this is] and what kind of woman is touching Him — for she is a sinner!”

40 

But Jesus answered him,“Simon, I have something to tell you.”

“Tell [me], Teacher,” he said.

41 

“Two [men] were debtors vvv to a certain moneylender. One owed [him] five hundred denarii,[fn] and the other fifty. 42 [When] they were unable to repay [him], he forgave both [of them]. Tell [Me],[fn] which [one], then, will love him more?”

43 

“I suppose the [one who] was forgiven more,” Simon replied

“You have judged correctly,” [Jesus] said

44 

And turning toward the woman, He said to Simon,“Do you see this woman? [When] I entered your house, you did not give [Me] water for My feet, but she wet My feet with her tears and wiped [them] with the hair of her head.[fn] 45 vvv You did not greet Me with a kiss, but she vvv has not stopped kissing My feet since I arrived.[fn] 46 vvv You did not anoint My head with oil, but she has anointed My feet with perfume. 47 Therefore I tell you her many sins have been forgiven, for she has loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.”

48 

Then [Jesus] said to her,“Your sins are forgiven.”

49 

But those at the table began to say to themselves,“Who is this who even forgives sins?”

50 

And [Jesus] told the woman,“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” 8