New Testament
Mark 14:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Why are you giving her a hard time? She's done something beautiful for me.
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And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me.
What Mark 14:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus defends a woman who has anointed him with expensive perfume, which some of his disciples criticize as wasteful. Jesus emphasizes that her act is not just a simple gesture but a beautiful and meaningful expression of love and devotion. He highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing acts of kindness, especially when they are done for him. This moment illustrates the contrast between human judgment, which often focuses on practicality and cost, and divine appreciation, which sees the heart behind the action. Jesus' response encourages us to understand that true worship and love can sometimes defy conventional expectations and that we should not hinder others in their expressions of faith and love.
How to apply Mark 14:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to support and affirm others in their expressions of faith, even if they seem unconventional or extravagant. It reminds us to focus on the heart behind actions rather than merely their outward appearances or costs. We should celebrate acts of love and devotion to God.
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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Related topics
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 14:6 mean?
Mark 14:6 captures a moment where Jesus defends a woman who anoints him with expensive perfume. He emphasizes that her act is beautiful and meaningful, contrasting it with the criticism from his disciples who see it as wasteful.
What is the significance of the woman's act in Mark 14:6?
The woman's act of anointing Jesus with costly perfume signifies deep love and devotion. Jesus highlights that such expressions of faith should be valued, even if they seem extravagant to others.
How does Mark 14:6 relate to judgment and appreciation?
In Mark 14:6, Jesus illustrates the difference between human judgment, which often focuses on practicality, and divine appreciation, which recognizes the heart behind actions. He encourages valuing sincere acts of devotion.
What themes are present in Mark 14:6?
Key themes in Mark 14:6 include defending the marginalized, the value of worship, acts of devotion, and the contrast between human judgment and divine appreciation.
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