New Testament
Mark 14:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"That could have been sold for more than 300 denarii and the money given to the poor!" They scolded her harshly.
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For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.
What Mark 14:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, which prompts criticism from some of the disciples. They argue that the perfume could have been sold for over 300 denarii, a significant amount of money, and the proceeds given to the poor. Their harsh scolding reflects a common concern for social justice and the welfare of the needy. However, this reaction also highlights a misunderstanding of the value of honoring Jesus. The disciples prioritize financial practicality over the act of devotion, revealing a tension between material concerns and spiritual significance. The woman's act of love and worship is dismissed in favor of a more utilitarian approach, showcasing how sometimes, the most profound expressions of faith can be misunderstood or undervalued by others. This moment serves as a reminder that true devotion may not always align with societal expectations or norms.
How to apply Mark 14:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our priorities. Are we sometimes too focused on practical concerns, like money, that we overlook opportunities to express our love and devotion to God? It challenges us to value acts of worship and service, even when they seem extravagant or impractical.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany (Mark 14:3–9)
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Jesus
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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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Mark 14:5
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 14:5 mean?
Mark 14:5 describes a woman anointing Jesus with expensive perfume, which leads to criticism from some disciples who believe the perfume's value should have been used to help the poor. This highlights a conflict between material concerns and the significance of honoring Jesus.
What is the significance of the 300 denarii in Mark 14:5?
The mention of 300 denarii indicates a substantial amount of money, emphasizing the extravagance of the woman's act of devotion. It also reflects the disciples' concern for financial practicality over spiritual expression.
Why did the disciples criticize the woman in Mark 14:5?
The disciples criticized the woman because they believed the expensive perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. Their reaction shows a misunderstanding of the value of her act of worship.
What themes are present in Mark 14:5?
Key themes in Mark 14:5 include devotion, criticism, the value of worship, and the tension between materialism and spirituality. It also touches on social justice and the misunderstanding of true acts of faith.
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