The Greek word alábastron, represented by G211, refers to an "alabaster" box. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in scripture. While named for the stone, the definition indicates that by extension it can mean a perfume vase made of any material.
In the biblical narrative, G211 is consistently found in the context of a woman anointing Jesus. In one account, a woman described as a sinner brought an alabaster box of ointment into a Pharisee's house where Jesus was a guest Luke 7:37. In a similar event in Bethany, a woman came with an alabaster box of very precious spikenard ointment, which she broke before pouring it on his head Mark 14:3. This act is also recorded in Matthew's account, where a woman pours the contents of her alabaster box of very precious ointment on Jesus's head as he sat at meat Matthew 26:7.
Several related words expand upon the use of the alabaster box:
- G1135 gynḗ (a woman): In each account, it is a woman who brings the alabaster box as an act of devotion (Matthew 26:7, Mark 14:3, Luke 7:37).
- G3464 mýron ("myrrh", i.e. (by implication) perfumed oil): This word specifies the contents of the box, an ointment described as very precious Matthew 26:7 and extremely expensive Mark 14:3.
- G2708 katachéō (to pour down): This is the action performed with the contents of the vase, as the woman poured the ointment from the alabaster box onto Jesus's head (Matthew 26:7, Mark 14:3).
- G3487 nárdos ("nard"): This further specifies the type of ointment in the alabaster box as spikenard, which was a valuable perfume Mark 14:3.
The theological weight of G211 is demonstrated through the sacrificial act it facilitates.
- Costly Devotion: The alabaster box contains ointment described as highly valuable G927 or extremely expensive G4185, highlighting the significant value of the offering being made to Jesus (Matthew 26:7, Mark 14:3).
- Irreversible Sacrifice: In one account, the woman does not simply open the container but "brake the box," signifying a complete and irreversible act of worship that held nothing back Mark 14:3.
- Anointing: The sole purpose of the alabaster box in these narratives is to hold the ointment used to anoint Jesus's head G2776, a significant act performed while he reclined at a meal (G345, G2621).
In summary, G211 is more than just a container. It is a key object in the gospel narratives, consistently appearing as a vessel for a profound act of worship. The alabaster box symbolizes the nature of true devotion: personal, sacrificial, and focused entirely on honoring Christ with what is most precious. Through its use by a woman to pour out costly ointment, it illustrates a powerful expression of faith and love.
TRV