Luke 7:46Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The Lord perceives in Simon a man full of pride and folly: proud because he, being merely human, judged another for their transgressions; and foolish because he failed to recognize that the woman displaying such profound faith and love should have been embraced rather than scorned. Consequently, the Lord admonishes him for unjustly condemning his wife, who, in her devotion, had accomplished far more than he had, and certainly more worthy deeds than he had ever managed. For instance, you did not wash my feet, which is a simple act of hospitality, yet she bathed them with her tears; you did not anoint my head with water, but she poured out her tears upon my feet; you did not offer fragrant oil, but she lavished myrrh upon me.

Observing the heart of the Pharisee, the Lord presented a parable: A certain moneylender had two debtors; one was in debt for five hundred denarii, while the other owed fifty. Since neither had the means to repay their debts, he graciously forgave them both. Jesus asked, "Which of them will love him more?" (See Luke 7:41-42). The Pharisee Simon replied, "I suppose the one who was forgiven more." Then Jesus directed His attention to the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your home, yet you did not provide water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not greet me with a kiss, but she has not ceased to kiss my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with fragrant oil.

Through these statements, He affirmed the reality of His physical form, as He truly possessed a corporeal body, and she, with her tears, bathed His body, preparing and anointing it.

And behold, a woman from that city identified as a sinner (Luke 7:37). This account tends to perplex many, leading them to question whether the two Gospel writers were at odds in their teachings or simply offering differing insights into the sacramental significance of the event through varied expressions. In the Gospel of Matthew, we read that when Jesus arrived in Bethany at Simon the leper's house, a woman approached Him with an alabaster jar of costly perfume and anointed His head as He reclined (Matthew 26:6-7). In contrast, Luke portrays the tax collector who muses that if Jesus were a prophet, He would recognize her sinful nature and thus avoid her (Luke 7:39), while in Matthew, it's the disciples who express discontent, claiming the perfume was wasted. Both narratives demand clarification, yet it is essential to interpret the earlier biblical text first.

Thus, the Lord Jesus went to Simon the leper's home. This visitation highlights His acceptance of the leper and His desire to cleanse the human form of its impurity. The residence of the leper was located in Bethany, which translates to “house of obedience.” Consequently, every setting can be viewed as Bethany, with Simon's house included. Could we not view Bethany as representative of the world where we are called to display our obedience through service, while the house of Simon the leper is merely a part of that world? Simon the leper embodies the ruler of this world. Therefore, the Lord Jesus Christ descended from heavenly realms into this earthly existence. He was not a part of this world by nature; yet, through His dutiful submission, He was sent into it, as He stated: As the Father hath sent me into this world (John 6:57). This woman had learned of Christ’s arrival and came to Simon's house, for it was only through His incarnation that her healing could occur. By entering Simon's house, she takes on a loftier representation—the soul or Church that descends to Earth, drawing people in with its sweet fragrance (2 Cor. 2:14-15).

In Matthew’s account, the woman is depicted pouring perfume on Jesus’ head, suggesting he may not have referred to her as a sinner. In Luke’s account, however, a sinful woman anoints His feet (Luke 7:37). These may not represent the same individual, indicating no contradiction among the evangelists. The resolution lies within the differing significance of the act and the transformation within the woman: first, she is a sinner, then she is perfected. The Church or soul retains its core identity but evolves in its spirituality. A soul steadfast in its pure devotion approaches God with faithfulness (Isaiah 58:2, James 4:8), serving the Word of the Lord not through shameful sins but through piety. This soul ascends to become united with Christ, who Himself is God’s head (1 Corinthians 11:3). Such a soul radiates the perfume of its virtues. We serve as Christ’s sweet fragrance to God (2 Cor. 2:15), and the righteous life brings glory to Him.

With this understanding, it becomes apparent that this woman will be forever honored and celebrated wherever the Gospel is shared (Matt. 26:13). Her memory will endure as she anointed Christ’s head with the delightful perfume of virtuous conduct. One who draws near to the head cannot mock foolishly with a carnal mindset or remain distant from the head (Col. 2:18-11). For those unable to grasp the head of Christ, may they at least cling to His feet, for the entire body, joined together, grows through the divine influence (Col. 2:19).

The second woman differs from the first, potentially being a different person altogether, or she may have transformed, but she is relatable to us as we too have not renounced our sins. Where are our tears? Where are our cries? Where is our lamentation? Come, let us worship and bow before the Lord our Maker (Psalm 94:6), that we may reach even to the feet of Jesus! Yet we often find ourselves unable to, with the sinner at His feet and the righteous at His head.

Nevertheless, the sinner bore perfume. You reveal to me repentance after transgression! When you learn that the Righteous has entered the dwelling of the unworthy or into the house of the Pharisee, strive, before lauding the host’s hospitality, to grasp the Kingdom of Heaven, for since the days of John the Baptist, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advanced, with the valiant seizing it (Matthew 11:12). Where you hear the name of Christ, hasten toward Him! When you see Christ coming into your inner abode, approach with haste. When you discover Wisdom, when you find Righteousness (1 Cor. 1:30) resting within your home, rush even to His feet, seeking at least a glimpse of Wisdom! Do not hesitate to approach His feet, for one woman was healed by merely touching the fringe of His garment (Lk. 8:44). Confess your sins with tears, and may the heavenly Righteousness respond to you.

She poured tears on my feet, wiping them with her hair (Lk. 7:44). Perhaps this is why Christ refrained from washing His feet, allowing us the privilege to cleanse them with our tears. Beautiful are those tears that not only wash away our offenses but also refresh the feet of the heavenly Word so that His presence within us yields fruit. Delightful are the tears that not only atone for wrongdoing but also serve as sustenance for the righteous, for the righteous proclaimed: My tears have become my bread (Psalm 41:4).

If you cannot draw near to the head of Christ, let Him at least touch your head with His feet. The hem of His garment brings healing, as do His feet. Unfurl your hair, your entire being before Him. Precious is the hair that can tend to the feet of Christ. He who was once invincible while having hair bears witness (Judges 16:17-19). It is deemed inappropriate for a woman without hair to pray (1 Cor. 11:5-6); may she have hair with which to honor the feet of Christ. With the strands of her beauty and dignity, may she brush against the feet of Wisdom, so that her hair may be nourished by the dew of divine power; let her seal her affection upon the feet of Righteousness. Great is the merit of that woman whom Wisdom can declare,

Since I came, she has not ceased to kiss My feet (Luke 7:45). Wisdom can only impart knowledge, love righteousness, and embody purity, for a kiss signifies mutual affection, a pledge of devotion.

Blessed is he who anoints the feet of Christ with oil! Simon failed to do this; rather, blessed is the woman with the fragrant ointment: the beauty of many flowers together emits an array of delightful scents. It is perhaps only the Church, where countless fragrant blossoms are united, that can yield such a perfume. It is no surprise that she assumed the role of a sinner, as Christ likewise took on the form of a sinner (Phil. 2:7).

Therefore, no one can express love as the Church does, for it embodies the love of many, including Peter himself, who declared to Christ: Lord, You know that I love You (Jn. 21:15)—grieved by the inquiry: Do You love Me? (Jn. 21:17). He wished not to be questioned as an outsider about what was clear. Thus, neither Peter loved more because in him, the Church loved, nor Paul for he too was a part of it. You love the Lord more intensely than any other, that you might receive forgiveness for many sins. Paul, who once persecuted believers (1 Cor. 15:9; 1 Tim. 1:13), loved deeply, enduring even to the point of martyrdom. His many sins were washed away because of his profound love as he shed his own blood for the name of God.

However, let us return to the earlier-mentioned woman, whose purpose the apostles do not yet grasp, for it remains concealed from the ages in God; for who has comprehended the mind of the Lord? (Is. 40:13; Rom. 11:34). The disciples voiced their discontent that a woman had poured ointment on His head, expressing, “What a waste! This ointment could have been sold for a higher price and given to the poor” (Matt. 26:8-9; cf. Mk. 14:4-5). It may be difficult to pinpoint the fault in their statements until one grasps the full meaning behind their words. This perspective is typically that of an indulgent or, to be more precise, a non-noble individual. Moreover, those imbued with the scent of peace typically apply it lightly, rather than pouring it out abundantly. Why should their remarks be criticized: Is it possible to sell this ointment for a higher price and assist the poor? The Lord previously stated: What you did to one of these little ones, you did to me (Matthew 25:40), and He willingly offered His life for the needy.

This is more than a mere analogy; hence the Word of God responds to them: Why do you trouble this woman?... You always have the needy among you, but you do not always have Me (Matthew 26:10, 11). The less fortunate are always present—serve them! Because they are ever with you, do not postpone acts of charity, and the prophet advises: Do not say to the needy… I will give you tomorrow (Proverbs 3:28). The prophet spoke solely about compassion, yet the Lord elevates faith above mercy, asserting that mercy is only valuable when it is preceded by faith. Having anointed My body with this ointment, she has prepared Me for burial (Matthew 26:12). So, the Lord cherished not the ointment, but rather her love; He embraced faith and commended humility.

And if you seek mercy, increase your love; pour out upon the Body of Christ your faith in the resurrection, as well as the perfume of the Church, a reflection of collective love. Only by excelling in these practices can you assist the needy. Money holds greater significance when shared out of necessity rather than abundance, given in the name of Christ, acting as if you were providing to Him personally. Therefore, do not interpret the anointing of the head literally; for the letter kills (2 Corinthians 3:6), but the Spirit gives life.

What kind of ointment did this woman possess? Who is capable of comprehending it? Only those whose ears can receive the words of Jesus, the ones he learned from the Father, for He Himself embodies the Word, can truly fathom this mystery. Even the disciples grasp only a fraction; they do not perceive everything. This may explain some beliefs that the disciples sought to purchase the faith of the Gentiles for incense, which can only be rightfully obtained at the expense of the Lord's blood—and that reasoning holds weight. The Evangelist John cites Judas Iscariot, who appraised the ointment at three hundred denarii: We could sell this ointment for three hundred denarii and give it to the poor (John 12:5; Mark 14:5). The three hundred pieces symbolize the cross, with the Greek letter T representing this quantity, as first indicated in the early text, ‘Epistle of Barnabas’—a point also made by Clement of Alexandria (Strom. 6:48). However, the Lord seeks a more profound understanding of the mystery; He desires that the faith of believers should be buried alongside Him.

Thus, we comprehend the statements from the other apostles. Yet Judas is condemned for his greed, for he preferred wealth over the burial of his Lord. Even if he was aware of his Lord’s suffering, he erred in placing such high value on the ointment. Christ wished to be sold for a modest price so that anyone could purchase Him, ensuring the beggar was not turned away. He stated, Freely ye have received, freely give (Matt. 10:8). He embodies the depth of riches (See: Rom. 11:33; 1 Pet. 1:19). His longing is not for financial gain, but for gratitude. He has redeemed us with His precious blood, not sold us.

Hence, it is fitting that in Him are hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3), which no one has known before. Therefore, let it also be my task to labor in His burial, that we might come to believe that His flesh rested yet did not decay, and that the death of His body fills our home with fragrance, convincing us that He surrendered His spirit into the Father’s hands (Cf: Ps. 15:10; Lk. 23:46; Psalm 30:6) and the divine nature, which transcends death, did not suffer with the body.

You may have chosen the simple path, yet she has undertaken the more challenging one. Notice that through what she once used to bring about her ruin, she has now turned towards her redemption. With her affectionate kisses, elaborate braids, and fragrant oils, she enticed the wayward; what were once tools of sin, she has transformed into means of salvation.

You have not honored my head with oil, for the oil of the wicked will not be poured upon me (Psalm 140:5). How could the one who neglects the feet bring honor to the head? Yet, this myrrh anoints my feet, in fulfillment of the prophecy, “Peace is poured out upon Thy name” (Song of Songs 1:3), signifying that it is poured but not emptied. When the vessel of Jewish perspectives became corrupt, it led to the fragrant ointment being poured out from your vessel onto my feet, so that by my means, a sweet grace might be disseminated among the nations. Let us reflect on the contrast between the sinful woman and the Pharisee.

In a sacramental context, if we understand the feet of the Lord as representing the sacrament of His incarnation, then His head corresponds to the divine nature itself. Paul articulates this by stating, ‘God is the head of Christ’ (1 Cor. 11:3). The Israelites professed faith in God but not in Him as a man. The condemnation to the Pharisee highlights this: ‘thou hast not anointed My head with oil,’ indicating that the Israelites failed to honor the greatness of His divine essence, despite their proclaimed belief. In contrast, ‘And she anointed My feet with oil’ reflects how paganism, recognizing the mystery of His incarnation, offered profound praise even for His suffering.

When the astute Pharisee heard this, he replied, “Teacher, it is widely acknowledged that the individual who has been forgiven a larger debt is to be loved more.” The Lord responded to him, “You have answered rightly, Simon; indeed, it is as you say. For the one whom you did not truly anoint, she anointed with fragrant oil; the one whom you did not offer water to, she washed with her tears; you did not provide a kiss, yet she, in kissing my feet, cries out to me, ‘I have fallen at your feet—raise me from the impurity of my deeds.’”

While the Pharisee judged Jesus to be scarcely a prophet, the Lord addressed him directly, revealing that no one's heart, not even the Pharisee's, remains concealed from Him. He had already discerned the heartfelt remorse of the repentant sinner and the self-righteousness of the ‘righteous one,’ ultimately deeming the penitent heart as favored. Through the parable of the two debtors, one in debt for 500 denarii and the other for 50, He illustrated His guiding principles. In His eyes, all are sinners and debtors—some more acutely aware of their transgressions than others. The Lord's redeeming love particularly inclines toward those profoundly aware of their sinful state.

Around the same time that the Baptist sent his message to Christ, a Pharisee named Simon hosted a dinner and invited Him. Jesus went to Simon's home and took a seat. The gathering was open, allowing anyone to come in as an onlooker, in addition to the formal guests. Since the Lord was in attendance, a crowd followed Him, eager to hear His teachings or seek healing for their ailments, creating a significant turnout. Among those entering the house was a woman recognized as a sinner. At that moment, her heart was overwhelmed with deep and fervent remorse for her transgressions, prompting her to come into the house to plead for the Lord's forgiveness, tears streaming down her face.

“‘You have judged rightly,’ Christ replied, subsequently drawing a moral lesson from this brief parable, marked by a gentle yet potent clarity consistent with the profound and poetic style the Savior often employed in His teachings, resonating with the eloquence found in the words of the prophets. While Simon appeared unaware of the direction of this message, the contrite sinner, burdened by a heart that knows brokenness, must have understood its implications. Imagine the profound emotion that must have overwhelmed her when Christ, who until then had seemingly overlooked her presence, turned toward her.

You did not anoint My head with oil, which is a gesture of favor and love, as seen in various scriptures (cf. Ruth 3:3, 2 Sam. 12:20, 2 Sam. 14:11, Ps. 22:5). Simon neglected this, yet the woman honored Him by anointing His feet, using an even more precious fragrance. Unlike the act of anointing His head, she did not hold back in offering such a costly gift for His feet. Her act of devotion stands in stark contrast to your neglect; how much greater is her selfless gesture compared to your failure to even perform the simpler act of anointing My head with oil?

Simon's spirit, burdened by the biases of his sect, succumbed to profound uncertainty, even losing the little faith it harbored. The Pharisee reasoned within himself, "If he were indeed a prophet, he would recognize the identity and nature of the woman who touches him, for she is a sinner." While Simon pondered these thoughts, the Lord addressed him directly, revealing that the innermost reflections of the Pharisee were fully known to Him, and that He held the heartfelt sentiments of the repentant sinner in high regard. He, the One who understands all hearts, demonstrated to Simon that he himself was judging and condemning, all while doubting the One who governs both hidden and visible aspects of life.