And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made?

MARK 14:4KJV
Know the Bible

Mark 14:4 (KJV)

What does Mark 14:4 mean?

Mark 14:4 describes how some people present at the scene were upset and questioned why expensive ointment was being used in what they saw as a wasteful way. They felt that the ointment could have been put to better use.

In this moment, Jesus is at a meal in Bethany when a woman anoints him with costly ointment. Some of those watching, likely some of his disciples or other guests, react with strong disapproval. Their reaction shows their values and priorities, setting up a contrast with Jesus’ later response in the story.

The Greek behind Mark 14:4

  • ἀγανακτέω (aganakteō, G23): This word is translated as "had indignation" and means to be deeply displeased or annoyed. It suggests a strong emotional reaction, not just mild disapproval.
  • ἀπώλεια (apōleia, G684): Translated as "waste," this word often means destruction or ruin. Here, it shows that those speaking saw the use of the ointment as not just unnecessary, but as a total loss or squandering of something valuable.
  • μύρον (myron, G3464): This is the word for "ointment," referring to a fragrant, expensive oil used for anointing. Its value is central to the complaint.

Why Mark 14:4 matters

  • Mark 14:4 helps clarify that not everyone present agreed with the woman’s actions, highlighting a tension between practical concerns and acts of devotion.
  • The verse sets up a contrast between human judgment and Jesus’ perspective, which he explains in the following verses.
  • Understanding the emotional weight behind the words "indignation" and "waste" helps us see how strongly some people felt about the situation, making Jesus’ response even more significant.

Where else these words appear

“indignation” Greek G23 · used in 7 verses

  • Matthew 20:24 And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.
  • Matthew 26:8 But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?
  • Mark 10:41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John.

“ointment” Greek G3464 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 26:7 There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.
  • Luke 7:37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,
  • John 11:2 (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)

“waste” Greek G684 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
  • Philippians 1:28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
  • 2 Peter 2:2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.