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Unveiling the Word

In the study of biblical texts, understanding specific Greek words helps uncover cultural and theological nuances that shape the deeper meaning of Scripture. The Greek word μύρον (myron), meaning “ointment” or “perfume,” is a significant term in New Testament passages where anointing is involved. One such occurrence is in Matthew 26:7, where a woman anoints Jesus with a costly ointment. This act of anointing, particularly using myron, holds deep spiritual and cultural connotations, especially in its association with honor, healing, and preparation for burial. Exploring the meaning of myron is key to understanding such moments in the Gospels and their impact on the portrayal of Jesus’ mission and identity.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μύρον (myron), pronounced MOO-ron.

Etymology: The term μύρον comes from a root connected to aromatic ointments and perfumes. These substances were often extracted from plants and used for various purposes in both ancient Greek and Jewish cultures, including religious rituals, medicinal treatments, and acts of hospitality or reverence.

Part of Speech: Noun. μύρον is a neuter noun in Greek, and it refers to a physical substance, typically a perfumed oil or ointment. In the New Testament, it often appears in the context of anointing, where the application of such ointments signifies respect, consecration, or preparation for burial.

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Defining Meanings

1. Ointment (used in anointing): The primary use of μύρον refers to fragrant oils or ointments that were applied to people or objects, particularly in rituals of anointing. In the Gospel accounts, anointing Jesus with myron serves as an act of devotion and a foreshadowing of his burial (as in Matthew 26:7).

2. Perfume: Beyond its religious use, μύρον was also employed as a luxury item in ancient Greece and Jewish culture, where it was applied as a form of personal fragrance or as part of preparations for important social occasions.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἔλαιον (elaion) [pronunciation: EH-lay-on]: This word means “oil” and often refers to olive oil, used for cooking, fuel, or anointing. It differs from myron in that it is a more general term for oil, whereas μύρον specifically refers to perfumed oil or ointment.

2. ἀλόη (aloe) [pronunciation: AH-loh-ay]: While aloe refers to a plant used for its fragrance and medicinal properties, μύρον encompasses a broader range of perfumed substances.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, μύρον follows the neuter declension:

• Case: Nominative, genitive, dative, accusative.

• Number: Singular and plural forms exist (e.g., μύρον for singular, μύρα for plural).

• Gender: Neuter.

For example, in Matthew 26:7, the form μύρον is used in the accusative case to describe the substance that the woman pours on Jesus’ head.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Across major Greek lexicons, the word μύρον is universally understood to refer to perfumed oils or ointments used in acts of anointing or as personal fragrance. In New Testament contexts, it carries significant symbolic weight, especially in its application to Jesus’ body as a form of preparation for his impending death. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s highlight its ritual use, especially in Jewish burial customs, and how the New Testament writers use μύρον to emphasize devotion and sacrifice. In classical Greek literature, μύρον was also a luxury item, symbolizing wealth and honor.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 26:7 – “A woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume [μύρου], which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.”

2. Mark 14:3 – “While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume [μύρου], made of pure nard.”

3. Luke 7:37 – “A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume [μύρου].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Greek Usage in Text

Plato Symposium “He applied μύρον to his hands before greeting his guests.”

Herodotus Histories “The kings were anointed with μύρον before the ceremony.”

Septuagint Exodus 30:25 “You shall make a holy anointing oil, a perfumed ointment [μύρον] according to the art of the perfumer.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word μύρον, meaning “ointment” or “perfume,” appears in significant moments throughout the New Testament, particularly in the accounts of Jesus’ anointing. Its usage emphasizes devotion, honor, and preparation for burial, reflecting cultural practices of reverence and care. By understanding μύρον, one gains insight into the symbolic acts surrounding Jesus’ final days, as well as broader cultural practices in the ancient world.

Did You Know?

1. In ancient times, μύρον was often stored in alabaster jars, which were designed to preserve the fragrance and quality of the ointment.

2. The costliness of μύρον is highlighted in several Gospel accounts, emphasizing the woman’s sacrifice and devotion in anointing Jesus.

3. The word μύρον was not only used in religious contexts but also in daily life among the wealthy for personal grooming and social rituals.