### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lítra**, represented by `{{G3046}}`, is of Latin origin and denotes **a pound in weight**. This term is rare in scripture, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**. Its usage is specific, measuring significant quantities of valuable substances offered in acts of devotion toward Jesus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{G3046}}` occur in the Gospel of John, marking key moments before and after the crucifixion. In the first instance, Mary took a **pound** of very costly ointment of spikenard and anointed the feet of Jesus, filling the house with its fragrance [[John 12:3]]. Later, following Jesus' death, Nicodemus came and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes weighing about an hundred **pound** for the burial [[John 19:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the substances measured by the **pound**:
* `{{G3464}}` **mýron** (ointment): This term for perfumed oil is what Mary used a **pound** of in her act of anointing [[John 12:3]].
* `{{G3395}}` **mígma** (mixture): This describes the compound of spices brought by Nicodemus, which weighed one hundred **pound** [[John 19:39]].
* `{{G4666}}` **smýrna** (myrrh): A key ingredient in the burial **mixture**, this substance was often used in honoring the dead [[John 19:39]].
* `{{G250}}` **alóē** (aloes): This gum was the other component, combined with myrrh, in the massive quantity of spices prepared for Jesus' body [[John 19:39]].
* `{{G4186}}` **polýtimos** (extremely valuable): This adjective describes Mary's **pound** of ointment, emphasizing the great sacrifice involved in her act of worship [[John 12:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3046}}` lies in its ability to quantify acts of extravagant devotion and honor.
* **Costly Worship:** Mary's use of a **pound** of **very costly** `{{G4186}}` ointment was an act of profound worship, a tangible measure of her love for Jesus [[John 12:3]].
* **Honor in Death:** The hundred **pound** weight of myrrh and aloes brought by Nicodemus was an immense and lavish quantity for a burial, signifying deep respect and honor for Jesus even after his death [[John 19:39]].
* **Aromatic Presence:** In the case of Mary's anointing, the **pound** of ointment was enough to fill the entire house with its **odour** `{{G3744}}`, making the act a public and pervasive testimony.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3046}}` **lítra** serves as a specific measure that highlights the magnitude of devotion shown to Jesus. Though used only twice, it appears in two deeply personal and significant moments—an anointing for his burial and the preparation of his body after death. The word gives tangible weight to otherwise immeasurable acts of love, sacrifice, and honor.
TRV