The Greek word nárdos, represented by G3487, refers to "nard" or "spikenard." The term is noted as being of foreign origin. It is a specific and rare word, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible.
Both occurrences of G3487 are in the context of a woman anointing Jesus. In Mark's account, a woman in Bethany comes to the house of Simon the leper with an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard, described as "very precious," and pours it on Jesus' head Mark 14:3. In John's narrative, Mary takes a pound of "very costly" ointment of spikenard and anoints Jesus' feet, wiping them with her hair, which results in the house being filled with the fragrance John 12:3.
Several related words clarify the nature and value of the spikenard mentioned:
- G3464 mýron (perfumed oil): This is the general term for the ointment that the spikenard is a component of, used in both accounts (Mark 14:3, John 12:3).
- G4101 pistikós (trustworthy, i.e. genuine): This word modifies spikenard in both verses, indicating the ointment was pure or unadulterated (Mark 14:3, John 12:3).
- G4185 polytelḗs (extremely expensive): This describes the spikenard ointment in Mark's account as very precious Mark 14:3.
- G4186 polýtimos (extremely valuable): This is used in John's account to describe the ointment as very costly John 12:3.
The use of G3487 is central to profound acts of devotion.
- Sacrificial Worship: The spikenard is explicitly described as "very precious" G4185 and "very costly" G4186. The act of breaking an alabaster box Mark 14:3 and using a full pound of the substance John 12:3 highlights an extravagant and complete offering.
- Act of Anointing: In both instances, the spikenard ointment is used to anoint Jesus. This act of reverence is directed at his head in one account Mark 14:3 and his feet in another, which are then wiped with hair John 12:3.
- Pervasive Presence: The anointing in John's Gospel has a tangible effect on the environment, as "the house was filled with the odour of the ointment" John 12:3, signifying that the act of devotion impacted all who were present.
In summary, G3487 is not a common term but a highly specific one, denoting a valuable substance used for a singular purpose in the scriptural narrative. It is exclusively associated with the anointing of Jesus, framing these moments as acts of profound, sacrificial worship. The descriptions of its genuineness and high cost underscore the depth of the devotion being displayed, making nárdos a key element in two of the most memorable acts of reverence shown to Jesus.
TRV