### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἀλόη (alóē, `{{G250}}`) refers to "aloes," specifically the aromatic, resinous wood or gum derived from certain species of the *Aquilaria* tree, often referred to as agarwood or eaglewood. This substance was highly prized in antiquity for its rich fragrance and preservative qualities. The Strong's definition notes its "foreign origin," indicating it was an imported commodity in the Greco-Roman world, likely from India or Southeast Asia, underscoring its value and exotic nature. Unlike the medicinal aloe vera plant, the biblical "aloes" are consistently associated with perfumery and embalming due to their distinctive aroma.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀλόη (alóē, `{{G250}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in a profoundly significant context:
* **[[John 19:39]]**: "And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight."
This verse describes Nicodemus, a prominent Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin who had previously visited Jesus by night ([[John 3:1-2]]), now openly participating in Jesus' burial. He brings an immense quantity—about one hundred Roman pounds (approximately 75 pounds avoirdupois or 34 kilograms)—of a mixture of myrrh and aloes. This lavish offering was intended for anointing Jesus' body, a common practice in Jewish burial customs for honoring the deceased and mitigating decay, though not for mummification. The sheer volume of these costly spices signifies extraordinary reverence and honor, far exceeding what might be expected for a crucified criminal. It speaks to Nicodemus's profound and courageous devotion to Jesus, risking his reputation and position by associating himself with the crucified Lord.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is σμύρνα (smyrna, `{{G4667}}`), or "myrrh," which is explicitly linked with aloes in [[John 19:39]]. Both myrrh and aloes were expensive aromatic resins used for similar purposes: perfumes, anointing oils, and particularly in burial preparations. The combination of these two substances created a highly fragrant and potent mixture.
Other related concepts include:
* **Spices (ἀρώματα - arōmata, `{{G793}}`):** This broader term encompasses aromatic substances like aloes and myrrh, used for various purposes including anointing and embalming.
* **Burial Practices:** The use of aloes illuminates ancient Jewish customs surrounding death and burial, emphasizing the respectful and often lavish treatment of the deceased, especially for individuals of high standing or honor.
* **Precious Anointing:** The act echoes other instances of costly anointing in the Gospels, such as Mary anointing Jesus' feet with expensive nard ([[John 12:3]]), highlighting acts of profound devotion and recognition of Jesus' unique identity.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of ἀλόη (alóē) in the New Testament carries considerable theological weight, primarily through its association with the burial of Jesus:
* **Honor in Death:** The lavish application of aloes and myrrh by Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea provides a stark contrast to the ignominious death Jesus suffered on the cross. It underscores that despite the shame of crucifixion, Jesus was given a burial fit for a king or a person of immense honor, testifying to His true identity as the Messiah, even in death.
* **Profound Devotion:** Nicodemus's act demonstrates a remarkable transformation of faith. From a secret inquirer, he becomes an open disciple, publicly honoring Jesus' body at great personal risk. This act serves as a powerful testament to the depth of his devotion and the drawing power of Christ.
* **Anticipation of Resurrection:** While the spices were intended to preserve the body, their ultimate purpose was rendered unnecessary by the resurrection. The fragrant aloes prepared the body for the tomb, but the tomb could not hold the Lord of life. This act of burial, therefore, stands as a poignant prelude to the ultimate victory over death.
* **Symbolism of Sacrifice:** In a broader biblical sense, fragrant offerings often symbolize worship and acceptable sacrifice to God (e.g., [[Ephesians 5:2]]). While used for burial here, the preciousness and aroma of the aloes can subtly evoke the idea of Christ's own life and death as a perfect, pleasing sacrifice to God.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀλόη (alóē, `{{G250}}`) refers to the fragrant resin of the aloe tree, a costly aromatic substance. Its sole appearance in the New Testament in [[John 19:39]] describes Nicodemus bringing a significant quantity of aloes and myrrh for the burial of Jesus. This act is profoundly significant, highlighting the immense honor bestowed upon Jesus even in death, reflecting His true kingly identity. It also showcases Nicodemus's courageous and lavish devotion, a powerful testament of faith. The use of these precious spices for burial, though ultimately superseded by the resurrection, underscores the dignity and sacredness of Christ's body and His ultimate triumph over the grave.
TRV