Matthew 26:7 (KJV)

What does Matthew 26:7 mean?

Matthew 26:7 describes a woman approaching Jesus during a meal and pouring costly scented oil on his head. Her action draws attention to Jesus as the meal’s central figure and sets up the conversation that follows about the value and meaning of her gift.

The meal takes place in Bethany, at the house of Simon the leper, as verse 6 says. The KJV phrase “sat at meat” means that Jesus was eating; people at such meals commonly reclined rather than sitting upright at a table.

The Greek behind Matthew 26:7

• “box” — ἀλάβαστρον (alabastron): The word refers to a small container used for scented oil or perfume. The container was often made of alabaster, a soft stone, and the word does not necessarily suggest a box with corners.
• “ointment” — μύρον (myron): The Greek refers to fragrant oil or perfume. The KJV word “ointment” here points to a scented liquid, rather than necessarily a medical cream.

Why Matthew 26:7 matters

• The woman’s gift becomes the subject of a disagreement about its cost. In verses 8–9, the disciples call the act a waste and say the ointment could have been sold to help the poor.
• Jesus gives the action a meaning tied to his approaching death. In verse 12, he says that pouring the ointment on his body prepared him for burial.
• Matthew’s account gives the woman a lasting place in the story. In verse 13, Jesus says that what she has done will be told in memory of her wherever the good news is proclaimed.