### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pistikós**, represented by `{{G4101}}`, means **trustworthy** or **genuine** and unadulterated. It is derived from πίστις. This adjective appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, where it is used to describe the quality of spikenard ointment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4101}}` is used to emphasize the purity and high value of an offering given to Jesus. In Mark's account, a **woman** `{{G1135}}` comes to the house of Simon the leper in Bethany with an **alabaster box** `{{G211}}` of **ointment** `{{G3464}}` of **genuine** spikenard, described as **very precious** `{{G4185}}`. She breaks the box and pours it on his **head** `{{G2776}}` [[Mark 14:3]]. In a similar event, **Mary** `{{G3137}}` took a **pound** `{{G3046}}` of **very costly** `{{G4186}}` ointment of **genuine** spikenard and **anointed** `{{G218}}` the **feet** `{{G4228}}` of Jesus, wiping them with her **hair** `{{G2359}}` [[John 12:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this profound act of worship:
* `{{G3487}}` **nárdos** (nard): This is the specific type of fragrant oil being described. The term `{{G4101}}` modifies it to signify that it is **genuine** or pure spikenard [[Mark 14:3]].
* `{{G3464}}` **mýron** (ointment): This word refers to the perfumed oil itself. The value of the **ointment** is underscored by its description as both **genuine** and **very costly** [[John 12:3]].
* `{{G211}}` **alábastron** (alabaster box): This term describes the container holding the precious ointment. The act of breaking the **box** `{{G4937}}` in Mark's account signifies the totality of the gift [[Mark 14:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4101}}` is found in the nature of the worship it describes.
* **Genuine Offering:** By qualifying the spikenard as **genuine**, the text highlights that the gift offered to **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` was authentic and unadulterated, reflecting a pure act of devotion ([[Mark 14:3]], [[John 12:3]]).
* **Costly Sacrifice:** The genuineness of the nard is directly linked to its immense expense, as it is called **very precious** `{{G4185}}` and **very costly** `{{G4186}}`. The use of a whole **pound** `{{G3046}}` or the breaking of the **alabaster box** `{{G211}}` represents a complete and sacrificial act of worship.
* **Anointing Jesus:** The use of this pure and valuable ointment to **anoint** `{{G218}}` Jesus, whether on his **head** [[Mark 14:3]] or his **feet** [[John 12:3]], was an act of profound honor. The quality of the offering underscored the perceived worthiness of the one receiving it.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4101}}` is rare, its use is powerful. It elevates a material substance, spikenard, into a symbol of authentic, unadulterated, and sacrificial devotion. The word **pistikós** confirms the quality of the gift, which in turn reflects the depth of the giver's heart and the supreme honor being paid to Jesus.
TRV