The biblical accounts of Jesus’ anointing reveal the depth of his ministry and the significance of his mission. Scholars have debated the exact number of times Jesus was anointed in the Bible, but it is clear that these anointings hold immense spiritual and symbolic meaning. Join us on a journey to explore the biblical anointing of Jesus and uncover the profound lessons and insights these acts offer.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- The Bible contains multiple accounts of Jesus being anointed, with at least three separate occasions mentioned.
- The anointings took place in different contexts and locations, each carrying its own significance.
- Anointing in biblical times held cultural and symbolic importance, signifying preparation and mourning.
- The anointing accounts highlight themes of love, devotion, forgiveness, and redemption.
- Jesus’ anointing foreshadows his sacrificial death and affirms his identity as the Son of God.
Who was Jesus in the Bible 📚
How many times was Jesus anointed in the Bible
The following reasons people in the Bible were anointed: To consecrate someone for religious purposes, to heal someone, to show honor. How many times was Jesus anointed in the Bible?
According to Bible scholars, there are at least four instances where Jesus was anointed. The first instance is when Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume (John 12:1-8). The second instance is when a woman anointed Jesus’ head with perfume (Matthew 26:6-13). The third instance is when Jesus was anointed by His disciples prior to His ascension (Luke 24:50-53). The fourth instance is when Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit at His baptism (Mark 1:9-11).
Why were these anointings important? Consecration is the setting apart of someone or something for a sacred purpose. It is an act of dedication and commitment. When Mary anointed Jesus’ feet, she was setting Him apart for His ministry and foreshadowing His death. The second anointing, when a woman anointed Jesus’ head, took place at Simon the Leper’s house. This anointing was one of honor and respect. The third anointing, by the disciples, was a symbolic act of commissioning. They were setting Jesus apart for His work as Savior and Lord. The fourth anointing, by the Holy Spirit, was the ultimate act of consecration. It marked Jesus as God’s Son and launched His public ministry.
These anointings were important moments in the life of Jesus. They signified His dedication to His mission and His identification with God’s people. They also showed the esteem in which He was held by those who loved Him.(biblical anointing of Jesus)
The First Anointing in Luke 7:36–50
The first anointing of Jesus is recorded in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 7:36–50. This significant event took place in the house of Simon the Pharisee, where Jesus was invited to dine. During the meal, a woman, known in the text as a “sinner,” came into the house and approached Jesus. Overcome with deep reverence and love, she brought with her an alabaster flask of fragrant oil.
As the woman stood behind Jesus, she began to weep, and her tears fell upon his feet. She then proceeded to wipe his feet with her hair, an act of utmost humility and devotion. In an extraordinary display of love, she broke open the flask and anointed Jesus’ feet with the fragrant oil. This anointing was a profound expression of her faith and belief in Jesus as the Messiah.
“Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.”
This encounter between Jesus and the woman at Simon the Pharisee’s house serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of Jesus’ love and compassion towards all people, regardless of their past sins or societal status. It teaches us that true love and devotion are not measured by external appearances but by the sincerity and purity of the heart.
The First Anointing in Luke 7:36–50 – Summary:
- The first anointing of Jesus took place in the house of Simon the Pharisee.
- A woman known as a “sinner” approached Jesus and anointed his feet with fragrant oil.
- This act of anointing was a demonstration of her deep love, humility, and faith in Jesus.
- Jesus acknowledged her act of devotion and forgave her sins, emphasizing the importance of love and gratitude.
| Anointing | Location | Anointer | Act |
|---|---|---|---|
| The First Anointing | House of Simon the Pharisee | A woman known as a “sinner” | Anointed Jesus’ feet with fragrant oil |
The Second Anointing Before the Triumphal Entry
In the second anointing of Jesus, we find a deeply moving and symbolic moment that occurred in the house of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha in Bethany. The event is recorded in the Gospel of John, chapter 12, verses 1-8. Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, played a central role in this extraordinary act of love and devotion.(anointing of Jesus in Scripture)
Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard and anointed Jesus’ feet. She then wiped his feet with her hair, filling the house with the fragrance of the perfume. This act of anointing took place just six days before the Passover, marking a significant moment in the life of Jesus.
While some of the disciples, most notably Judas Iscariot, objected to the perceived waste of the expensive perfume, Jesus defended Mary’s actions, saying, “Leave her alone. She has kept it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” These words highlight the deep significance of Mary’s anointing, hinting at its connection to Jesus’ impending death and burial.
| Anointing Details | Location | Participants |
|---|---|---|
| The Second Anointing | Bethany | Mary, sister of Lazarus and Martha |
“Leave her alone. She has kept it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” – Jesus (John 12:7-8)
This anointing holds profound meaning within the narrative of Jesus’ ministry. It serves not only as an act of devotion and preparation but also as a foreshadowing of the sacrifice that Jesus would soon make for humanity. Mary’s act of anointing symbolizes her recognition of Jesus’ role as the Messiah and her willingness to honor and serve him in a deeply personal and sacrificial way.
The Second Anointing Before the Triumphal Entry is a poignant reminder of the love and devotion that Jesus inspires in those who encounter him. It challenges us to reflect on our own response to his presence and prompts us to consider how we too can express our love and devotion to him in our daily lives.
The Third Anointing After the Triumphal Entry and Before the Crucifixion
The third anointing of Jesus occurred after the Triumphal Entry, two days before the Passover. It took place in the house of Simon the Leper in Bethany. An unnamed woman broke an alabaster box of fragrant oil and poured it on Jesus’ head. This anointing was seen as an act of preparation for his burial. Some of the disciples objected to the cost of the oil, but Jesus defended the woman’s actions.(instances of jesus being anointed)
Matthew 26:6–13 provides the account of this meaningful event:
“Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, there came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.”
This anointing carries deep symbolism, representing Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and his role as the Savior. Despite the disciples’ objections, Jesus recognizes the woman’s act of devotion and acknowledges its significance. Through this anointing, Jesus communicates the gravity of his impending death and sets an example of selfless love and sacrifice to his disciples and followers.( jesus’ anointing occurrences in the bible)
The third anointing of Jesus exemplifies the depth of faith, love, and devotion that believers can aspire to. It serves as a reminder of the profound impact of acts done with a pure heart and a genuine desire to honor and follow Jesus.
Possible Harmonization of the Anointing Accounts
When examining the various anointing accounts in the Bible, scholars have found discrepancies in the timing, location, and details of each event. Some propose that these accounts refer to the same anointing, while others argue for multiple separate occasions. Through various harmonization theories, attempts have been made to reconcile these differences and provide a cohesive understanding of the anointings of Jesus.
One possible explanation is that the anointing recorded in Matthew, Mark, and John is the same event, but with different emphasis and details. This theory suggests that the Gospel writers focused on different aspects of the anointing to convey specific theological messages. Matthew and Mark highlight the significance of the woman anointing Jesus’ head, while John emphasizes the anointing of Jesus’ feet by Mary. By combining these perspectives, a more complete picture of the event can be formed.
“The harmonization of the anointing accounts allows us to appreciate the richness and depth of these narratives. It reveals various dimensions of love, devotion, and preparation for Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice.”
Another theory suggests that there were indeed multiple anointings of Jesus. Each Gospel account may represent a distinct event and serve a unique purpose in the overall narrative. These anointings could symbolize different aspects of Jesus’ ministry, such as his role as the Messiah, his upcoming death, and his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. While this theory allows for greater specificity in the narrative, it also raises questions about the sequencing and timing of the anointings.
Regardless of the number of anointings, the harmonization of the accounts underscores the significance of these acts in Jesus’ ministry. The anointings reveal the love, devotion, and preparation surrounding Jesus’ mission, as well as the profound impact he had on those who encountered him. Whether seen as a unified event or separate occasions, the anointings of Jesus remind believers of the depth of God’s love and the sacrifice Jesus made for humanity’s redemption.
| Harmonization Theories | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Same Event, Different Emphasis | – Gospel writers focus on different aspects of the anointing – Combining perspectives provides a more complete picture |
| Multiple Anointings | – Each Gospel account represents a distinct event – Symbolizes different aspects of Jesus’ ministry |
In conclusion, the harmonization of the anointing accounts in the Bible offers insights into the love, devotion, and preparation surrounding Jesus’ ministry. Whether the accounts refer to the same event or multiple anointings, they highlight the significance of these acts and the profound impact Jesus had on those around him. The harmonization theories provide different perspectives and deepen our understanding of the anointings, emphasizing the themes of love, devotion, and preparation for Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice.
Table: Comparing the Themes and Lessons of Jesus’ Anointing
| Themes | Lessons |
|---|---|
| Love and Devotion | The women expressed their love and devotion through their acts of anointing, inspiring us to demonstrate the same devotion in our relationship with Jesus. |
| Forgiveness and Redemption | Jesus’ acceptance of the anointings symbolizes His forgiveness and redemption for all who seek Him, reminding us of the transformative power of His grace. |
| Sacrifice and Selflessness | The women’s sacrificial acts challenge us to examine our own lives and consider how we can demonstrate selflessness and sacrifice in our discipleship. |
| Significance of Jesus’ Mission | The anointing stories emphasize the profound mission of Jesus and His unwavering love for humanity, inviting us to seek a deeper relationship with Him. |
The Significance of Jesus’ Anointing
The anointing of Jesus holds great significance in the biblical narrative. It symbolizes his preparation for burial and foreshadows his sacrificial death on the cross. Just as oil was traditionally used to prepare bodies for burial, the anointing of Jesus represents the final act of preparation before his crucifixion, emphasizing the inevitability and purpose of his ultimate sacrifice.
Furthermore, the act of anointing carries a profound symbolic meaning. In biblical times, anointing with oil was a sacred act, often performed to consecrate individuals for a divine purpose. By accepting these anointings, Jesus affirms his identity as the chosen Messiah and the Son of God, making a powerful statement about his mission and divinity.
“The anointing of Jesus is a poignant reminder of the depth of God’s love for humanity and the lengths He was willing to go to save us from our sins.”
The anointing accounts also serve as a poignant reminder of God’s love for humanity. Jesus willingly accepted the anointings, knowing full well the significance they held. In doing so, he demonstrated his love for mankind and his commitment to fulfilling God’s plan of redemption. The anointings highlight the profound sacrifice Jesus was willing to make for the forgiveness of sins, reinforcing the central message of Christianity.
Table: The Symbolic Significance of Jesus’ Anointing
| Anointing | Significance |
|---|---|
| Preparation for Burial | Foreshadowing of Jesus’ impending death and burial |
| Symbolic Meaning | Consecration as the chosen Messiah and Son of God |
| Expression of Love | Jesus’ demonstration of love for humanity and God’s love for mankind |
| Redemptive Purpose | Emphasis on Jesus’ sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins |
The anointing of Jesus resonates deeply with believers, inspiring faith, gratitude, and a desire to follow in his footsteps. It serves as a reminder of the profound love of God and the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice. By understanding the significance of Jesus’ anointing, believers can gain a deeper appreciation for the central themes of their faith and find inspiration in the example set by Jesus.
Final Thoughts -How many Times was Jesus Annointed
The biblical accounts of Jesus’ anointing offer profound insights into his ministry and provide a framework for understanding the significance of anointing in the context of faith and spirituality. These stories reveal the depth of God’s love for humanity and invite believers to reflect on the themes of love, devotion, forgiveness, and redemption.
While scholars may debate the exact number of anointings, the overall message remains clear: Jesus’ anointing emphasizes his divinity, his mission, and his role as the Savior of humanity. The acts of anointing symbolize his preparation for burial, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice he would make on the cross.
As believers, we are called to emulate the love and devotion demonstrated by those who anointed Jesus. These biblical accounts inspire us to show love and gratitude to Jesus, seek forgiveness, and embrace our own redemption. They remind us that our faith journey is not only about receiving God’s love but also about responding to it with acts of devotion and service.
May the stories of Jesus’ anointing deepen our faith, strengthen our spiritual connection, and lead us to walk in the footsteps of Christ, embracing the symbolism of anointing as we journey on the path of righteousness and salvation.
FAQ
How many times was Jesus anointed in the Bible?
The exact number of times Jesus was anointed in the Bible is a subject of debate among scholars. However, the various accounts suggest that there were at least three separate occasions of Jesus being anointed.
What was the first anointing of Jesus?
The first anointing of Jesus took place in the house of Simon the Pharisee, where a woman, considered a sinner, anointed his feet with fragrant oil. This anointing occurred before the Triumphal Entry and was not done as a memorial for Jesus’ burial.
When and where did the second anointing of Jesus occur?
The second anointing of Jesus took place in the house of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha in Bethany. Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, anointed Jesus’ feet with costly perfume. This anointing occurred six days before the Passover and was seen as an act of devotion.
What is the significance of the third anointing of Jesus?
The third anointing of Jesus occurred after the Triumphal Entry and two days before the Passover. It took place in the house of Simon the Leper in Bethany, where an unnamed woman poured fragrant oil on Jesus’ head. This anointing was seen as preparation for his burial.
Do the anointing accounts in the Bible refer to the same event?
Some scholars propose that the anointing accounts in Matthew, Mark, and John refer to the same event, while others argue for three separate anointings. The differences in timing, location, and details can be explained through various harmonization theories.
What is the cultural significance of anointing?
In biblical times, anointing with oil was a gesture of hospitality and a way of refreshing and cleansing guests’ feet. In the case of Jesus’ anointing, it took on a deeper meaning related to his impending death and burial, symbolizing preparation and mourning.
What are the themes and lessons of Jesus’ anointing?
The anointing accounts in the Bible teach important lessons about love, devotion, forgiveness, and redemption. The women who anointed Jesus expressed their love and gratitude, and Jesus forgave sins, offered redemption, and affirmed the significance of their acts.
What is the significance of Jesus’ anointing?
The anointing of Jesus symbolizes his preparation for burial and foreshadows his sacrificial death on the cross. It conveys the sacredness of his mission and emphasizes his role as the Messiah. Accepting these anointings affirms his identity as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity.
What insights can be gained from Jesus’ anointing?
The biblical accounts of Jesus’ anointing provide valuable insights into his ministry and offer lessons on love, devotion, forgiveness, and redemption. They invite believers to deepen their faith, embrace the symbolism of anointing, and follow in the footsteps of Christ.
Source Links
- https://canadianbibleguy.com/2022/04/21/how-many-times-was-jesus-anointed-a-comparison-of-the-four-gospels/
- https://answersingenesis.org/contradictions-in-the-bible/how-many-times-was-jesus-anointed/
- https://mountofolives.co/blogs/cracking-the-anointing-oil-beauty-code/how-many-times-was-jesus-anointed
Best Bible Encyclopedias and Dictionaries
Below is a table featuring some highly regarded Bible Encyclopedias and Dictionaries along with their publishers and websites where they can be found or purchased.
| Title | Publisher | Website |
|---|---|---|
| The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia | Eerdmans | Eerdmans |
| Zondervan’s Pictorial Bible Dictionary | Zondervan | Zondervan |
| Easton’s Bible Dictionary | Thomas Nelson | Thomas Nelson |
| Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary | B&H Publishing Group | B&H Publishing Group |
| The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary | Moody Publishers | Moody Publishers |
| HarperCollins Bible Dictionary | HarperOne | HarperOne |
| Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words | Thomas Nelson | Thomas Nelson |
You can generally find these resources on the publishers’ websites, as well as other online book retailers such as Amazon or Christianbook. It’s always good practice to confirm availability and review additional details on the specific websites or other reliable online bookstores.
