Question 1

What does Mark 14:6 mean?

Accepted Answer

Mark 14:6 shows Jesus telling others to stop criticizing a woman for her actions, saying she has done something good for him. Jesus defends her, making it clear that her deed is valuable and should not be condemned. In this scene, Jesus is speaking to some of his disciples after a woman anoints him with expensive perfume. The disciples are upset, thinking the perfume should have been sold to help the poor, but Jesus steps in to protect her from their harsh words. He recognizes her act as a meaningful and honorable gesture toward him, not a waste.

Question 2

The Greek behind Mark 14:6

Accepted Answer

ἄφετε (aphete, "Let...alone"): This word is a command meaning "leave her alone" or "let her be." Jesus is firmly telling the others to stop bothering her, showing his authority and care. καλὸν (kalon, "good"): The Greek word used here means not just "good," but also "noble" or "beautiful." Jesus is saying her action is not just acceptable, but praiseworthy and admirable. ἔργον (ergon, "work"): This word means "deed" or "action." Jesus calls what she did a "good work," highlighting that her choice was active and intentional, not accidental.

Question 3

Why Mark 14:6 matters

Accepted Answer

Mark 14:6 clears up the misunderstanding that the woman's act was wasteful or misguided; Jesus himself calls it a "good work." The verse shows Jesus valuing personal devotion and honoring acts of love, even when others do not understand them. This moment sets the stage for Jesus to explain the deeper meaning of her action in the verses that follow, connecting it to his coming death and burial.

Mark 14:6 (KJV)