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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding the meaning of specific Greek words can significantly enhance our understanding of New Testament texts. The word νάρδος (nardos) holds particular significance due to its association with anointing practices, which were common in both religious and cultural contexts in ancient times. In Mark 14:3, this word refers to the “pure nard” used by a woman to anoint Jesus, a profound act that foreshadows His burial. Studying this word not only reveals the cultural importance of anointing but also highlights the theological implications of sacrifice, worship, and preparation for Jesus’ death.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: νάρδος (nardos), pronounced NAR-dos.

Etymology: The word comes from the Hebrew נֵרְדְּ (nērd) and was later borrowed into Greek. Nard is a fragrant plant, specifically a flowering herb of the valerian family, native to the Himalayan mountains of India and Nepal. In ancient times, it was valued for its aromatic oil, which was used in perfumes and ointments.

Part of Speech: Noun, feminine. As a noun, νάρδος refers to the aromatic oil derived from the plant, and its usage in scripture often emphasizes its purity and great value.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Nard (plant or oil): The primary meaning of νάρδος in the New Testament refers to the aromatic oil extracted from the nard plant. This oil was highly prized for its fragrance and was often used in perfumes, anointing oils, and embalming practices. The term in Mark 14:3 refers to a costly and pure form of nard.

2. Symbol of Wealth and Honor: In cultural and religious contexts, νάρδος was a symbol of wealth, luxury, and honor. Its use in the anointing of Jesus highlights the extravagant devotion of the woman, as she used something of great value to honor Him.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μύρον (myron) [pronunciation: MEER-on]: This word means “ointment” or “perfume” and is often used interchangeably with νάρδος. However, μύρον refers to any perfumed oil, while νάρδος specifically denotes the oil derived from the nard plant.

2. ἔλαιον (elaion) [pronunciation: EL-ah-yon]: Refers to olive oil, which was commonly used in anointing and for medicinal purposes. It differs from νάρδος in that it does not carry the same luxurious connotations.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a feminine noun, νάρδος follows standard declension patterns in Greek:

Case Singular

Nominative νάρδος

Genitive νάρδου

Dative νάρδῳ

Accusative νάρδον

νάρδος remains fairly consistent in its form throughout various grammatical cases.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word νάρδος appears in key biblical moments, particularly in narratives involving the anointing of Jesus. Lexicon insights highlight its cultural and economic value, emphasizing that it was a rare and costly substance. Its use in the New Testament reflects deep reverence and the readiness of individuals to honor Jesus through sacrificial acts of worship. In Mark 14:3, the “pure nard” anoints Jesus before His crucifixion, symbolizing preparation for His burial. This links the word to significant theological themes of sacrifice, honor, and preparation for death. In classical contexts, νάρδος also appears in descriptions of luxury goods used by the wealthy.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. 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, made of pure nard [νάρδου]. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on His head.”

2. John 12:3 – “Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard [νάρδου], an expensive perfume, and poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

The word νάρδος is found in classical literature primarily to describe luxury items and perfumes. It was often mentioned by Greek writers in the context of trade and the luxurious lives of the wealthy.

Author Name of Work English text with νάρδος

Herodotus Histories “…and they exchanged gifts of fine garments and nard [νάρδου].”

Pliny Natural History “…nard [νάρδου] from the east, more valuable than gold in trade.”

Septuagint Song of Solomon “While the king is at his table, my perfume spreads its fragrance: nard [νάρδος] is its essence.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word νάρδος (nardos) refers to a highly valuable and fragrant oil derived from the spikenard plant. In the New Testament, its use, particularly in the anointing of Jesus, carries profound theological significance, symbolizing worship, honor, and preparation for His death. Throughout ancient history, nard was a symbol of wealth and luxury, and its inclusion in biblical narratives emphasizes the sacrificial devotion of those who used it to honor Jesus. Its presence in both classical Greek texts and biblical accounts underscores its significance across cultures as a symbol of opulence and reverence.

Did You Know?

1. Nard oil, extracted from the roots of the spikenard plant, was often worth more than its weight in gold due to its rarity and fragrance.

2. In some ancient cultures, nard was used not only in anointing the living but also in embalming the dead, making its use on Jesus deeply symbolic of His impending burial.

3. The alabaster jar containing nard in Mark 14:3 likely represented a significant financial sacrifice, as such oil was a luxury only the wealthy could typically afford.