El Perfume De Alabastro En La Biblia
Perfume has been a part of human civilization since ancient times. In fact, the use of perfume is mentioned in the Bible as well. One of the most intriguing references to perfume in the Bible is the story of the woman who anointed Jesus with a perfume made of alabaster.
The Story of the Alabaster Jar
The story of the woman anointing Jesus with the perfume of alabaster is told in all four of the Gospels, which is a testament to its importance. The story goes that Jesus was dining at the home of Simon the Leper when a woman came in with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on Jesus' head, anointing him.
The disciples were outraged at the waste of such an expensive perfume and questioned why it couldn't have been sold and given to the poor. But Jesus rebuked them, saying that the woman had done a beautiful thing and that wherever the gospel was preached, her story would be told as well.
The Significance of Alabaster
But what is the significance of the alabaster jar? Alabaster is a soft, white stone that was often used for decorative purposes in ancient times. It was also used for perfume containers because it was easy to carve and had a beautiful, translucent quality when polished.
But the use of an alabaster jar for perfume was more than just about practicality. The woman's act of anointing Jesus with the perfume of alabaster was a symbol of her love and devotion. The use of such an expensive perfume was a sacrifice on her part, and it showed the depth of her love for Jesus.
The Symbolism of Perfume
Perfume also has a symbolic significance in the Bible. In the Old Testament, perfume was used in the anointing of priests and kings. It was a symbol of consecration and set-apartness. In the New Testament, perfume is often used as a symbol of the fragrance of Christ. In 2 Corinthians 2:15, Paul writes, "For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."
Conclusion
The story of the woman anointing Jesus with the perfume of alabaster is a beautiful example of sacrificial love and devotion. It is a reminder that the fragrance of Christ should be evident in our lives as Christians. Let us strive to live lives that are pleasing to God and a sweet aroma to those around us.