New Testament
Luke 7:46
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You didn't anoint my head with oil, but she has poured ointment on my feet.
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My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
What Luke 7:46 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus contrasts the treatment He received from a host with the actions of a woman who showed Him great honor and love. The host did not provide the customary anointing of His head with oil, which was a sign of respect and hospitality. In contrast, the woman went beyond expectations by anointing Jesus' feet with expensive ointment, demonstrating her deep gratitude and devotion. This act highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to Jesus' presence in our lives. The woman's actions serve as a powerful reminder that true worship and love for Jesus often manifest in humble and sacrificial ways, rather than mere formalities. Jesus uses this moment to teach about forgiveness and love, emphasizing that those who are forgiven much will love much. This verse invites us to reflect on how we honor Jesus in our own lives and encourages us to express our love for Him through our actions.
How to apply Luke 7:46 to your life
We can apply this verse by examining how we show love and honor to Jesus in our daily lives. Instead of merely going through the motions, we should seek to express our gratitude and devotion through meaningful actions, just as the woman did. Small acts of kindness and service can reflect our love for Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 7:46
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 7:46 mean?
Luke 7:46 highlights the contrast between the lack of hospitality shown by the host and the deep devotion of a woman who anointed Jesus' feet. It emphasizes the importance of honoring Jesus with genuine love and actions rather than mere formalities.
What is the significance of anointing in Luke 7:46?
Anointing in Luke 7:46 symbolizes respect and honor. The woman's act of anointing Jesus' feet with expensive ointment demonstrates her deep gratitude and love, contrasting with the host's failure to provide the customary anointing.
What does the woman’s action in Luke 7:46 teach us?
The woman's action teaches us that true devotion to Jesus is expressed through humble and sacrificial acts. It encourages us to reflect on how we can show our love for Him in meaningful ways.
How does Luke 7:46 relate to forgiveness?
In Luke 7:46, Jesus uses the woman's act of anointing to illustrate that those who recognize their forgiveness will respond with greater love and devotion. It highlights the connection between understanding forgiveness and expressing love.
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