Jesus Anointed at Bethany Again

Scripture

Matthew 26:6-13
Mark 14:3-9

Similar Passage

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

Key Differences

Mark gives us the timing of this event.  It occurs just two days before the Passover.  Mark also records that this is the proverbial "straw that broke the camel's back".  After this time he sought to betray Jesus.  When Jesus was anointed earlier, John recorded that Judas had hoped that the perfume would be sold and the money given to the poor.  As the treasurer he had been stealing from the group.  As his plans are thwarted a second time in just a few days he becomes frustrated with Jesus and realizes that it is no longer profitable for him to continue following.  He agrees to hand over Jesus to the authorities for an amount of money we later learn is 30 pieces of silver.

Additional Commentary

Like previously, this anointing is with pure nard, a very expense perfume worth more than a year's wages.  Even though this occurred recently at Lazarus' house, the disciples are still shocked by this display. 

Jesus' instruction that we will always have the poor is in no means intended to neglect the poor or exalt Himself.  Instead He considers this act to be prophetic as it is in preparation for His burial.  Undoubtedly the disciples have no understanding of what Jesus' means by this.  The time to prepare for Jesus' burial was limited whereas there would always be poor that could be helped.