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Explanation for:
Matthew
26
:
10
And Jesus knowing it, said to them: Why do you trouble this woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.
12
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Hilarius of Poitiers","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88cb92f12b3278598f946_Hilarius%20of%20Poitiers.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The Lord assured them that they would have ample opportunity to assist those in need. Furthermore, it was solely through His authority that redemption could be bestowed upon the Gentiles who were united with Him in the worldly offering made by this woman, as rebirth is attainable only for those who have experienced death with Him in baptism."},{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"A pertinent inquiry emerges: why did the Lord, following His Resurrection, tell the disciples, 'Behold, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age'? I believe He is referring to His physical presence, which after the Resurrection will be fundamentally transformed, differing significantly from its current state and not resembling that of earthly existence. In light of this, the apostle notes, 'But if we knew Christ according to the flesh, we know Him no more.'"},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The disciples, unaware of the woman’s intentions, wrongly rebuked her, highlighting her act of generosity in their accusations. They pointed out that the perfume could have been sold for three hundred denarii (Mark 14:5; John 12:5), thus illustrating the costliness of her offering and the depth of her generosity. In response, Christ admonishes them, asking, “Why do you trouble the woman?” How profound is the humanity of our Lord! He embraces the sinner—the woman who anoints His feet with oil and wipes them with her hair—while rebuking those who criticize her. It was unwarranted to shame her for her devotion. It’s also noteworthy that the disciples considered themselves noble and earnest in their charitable acts. Yet, instead of commending them outright with, “You have done well,” Christ first queries, “Why trouble the woman?” This was to teach them that it is unnecessary to expect extraordinary works from those who are weak at the outset. He assesses the woman's actions not merely in isolation but in the context of her character. Had He merely enforced the law's standards, He would not have mentioned her. Rather, He aimed to ensure that her faith would not be diminished by the disciples’ criticism but rather strengthened. Thus, His words were meant to instruct us to acknowledge, validate, and elevate acts of goodness, no matter who performs them or at what stage they are in their spiritual journey, without demanding immediate perfection. Christ's own desire for this is clear; even though He had nowhere to rest His head, He instructed that provisions be made for the collection box. At that moment, it was not a question of correcting her action but of graciously accepting it. Previously, He would not have voiced such an opinion had someone questioned Him, and after the woman’s act, His intention was for her to be unburdened by the disciples' criticisms, inspiring her to serve Him with greater fervor. Once the oil had been poured, their disapproval lost its validity. Likewise, if you observe someone in the process of creating sacred vessels or beautifying the church, do not allow them to sell or diminish what they have contributed, for doing so risks extinguishing their enthusiasm. Should someone discuss their intentions before commencing their task, encourage them to share their resources with the poor, for Jesus acted similarly to protect the woman’s zeal, delivering words of comfort specifically for her."},{"author-name":"Ambrose of Milan","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88871ceef8c96e0998cd0_Ambrose%20of%20Milan.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Let us revisit the previously mentioned woman, a matter not yet grasped by the apostles, for it is concealed from the ages in God; who has comprehended the mind of the Lord? (Is. 40:13; Rom. 11:34). The disciples expressed discontent regarding the woman who anointed His head, questioning, “Why such a waste? This ointment could have been sold for a higher price and given to the poor” (Matt. 26:8-9, cf. Mk. 14:4-5). It is challenging to discern what warrants criticism in their remarks until one delves into their deeper implications. Such thoughts are characteristic of one who indulges in luxury, or more aptly, of one who does not embody true humanity. Furthermore, those who radiate peace typically carry it with them rather than having it poured out. Why do such musings merit disapproval? Would it truly have been better to sell the ointment for a higher price and donate to the needy? The Lord initially responded, “What you did to one of these little ones, you did to me” (Matthew 25:40), and He Himself laid down His life for the poor. \\n\\nThis is not merely a metaphor, and thus the Word of God rebukes them: “Why do you trouble the woman?” You will always have the needy among you, but you will not always have Me (Matthew 26:10, 11). The impoverished are ever present—show them kindness. Since they are always with you, do not hesitate to act generously; the prophet advises against saying to the beggar, “I will provide for you tomorrow” (Proverbs 3:28). However, while the prophet emphasized mercy, the Lord elevated faith above it, as faith holds significance only when it precedes mercy. By anointing My body with this ointment, she has prepared Me for burial (Matthew 26:12). Therefore, the Lord cherished not the ointment itself, but her love; He accepted her faith and commended her humility.\\n\\nIf you desire mercy, then increase your love; pour out upon the body of Christ the faith in His Resurrection, the ointment of the Church, the aroma of shared love. Only by excelling in these virtues will your deeds benefit the poor. Money is more beneficial when given not out of surplus, but shared for righteous causes in the name of Christ—giving to the poor as though you are offering it to Him. Thus, do not interpret the ointment poured on His head in a literal sense—because the letter kills (2 Cor. 3:6)—but rather in a spiritual sense, for the spirit is life."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"After she had already anointed Him with the fragrance, the Lord upheld her, not due to any need for the anointing, but to preserve her faith. When the disciples criticized the woman, their remarks stirred feelings of regret within her, suggesting that she had squandered something so valuable. In contrast, the Lord admonishes them, indicating that it is burdensome to allow remorse to overshadow joy and faith. He teaches that it is vital to nurture emerging faith rather than stifle it; there is no need to nitpick at the outset or impose excessive expectations on those who are still maturing in their spiritual journey. He then reassures the woman, affirming, \\"You have done good deeds for Me.\\" By commending her actions overall, He first counters the disciples’ arguments regarding the poor and subsequently defends her actions directly."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"He admonished the disciples for having chastised the woman inappropriately. It is essential not to impose excessive expectations on newcomers, particularly those who are vulnerable, as we should accept their sincere yet modest faith. Thus, when an individual presents an offering to the Lord, do not dismiss him or stifle his fervor, which would occur if you directed him to give his gift solely to the needy; instead, allow him to make his offering. If someone inquires whether he should donate to the needy or present his offering to God, counsel him to assist the poor; if he has already offered it to God, do not condemn him unnecessarily. Moreover, the reverence due to God takes precedence over all else, including acts of charity. If Christ, in His compassion for mankind, considers merciful deeds as His own, we must not neglect our duty to God in favor of solely focusing on almsgiving; such a neglect would risk sacrilege, rendering charitable acts tainted by this sacrilege. It must not be so."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"However, Jesus recognized their thoughts and spoke to them, \\"Why do you disturb the woman? Allow her to be; she has performed a noble act for me; she has shown me kindness.\\""},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Jesus spoke to them, \\"Let her be,\\" questioning, \\"Why do you trouble her with these words? Why attempt to make her feel guilty? She has performed a noble act for Me (Mk. 14:6).\\""},{"author-name":"Lopuchin A.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c891400ee1341634d2276d_Lopuchin%20A.P..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Christ, aware of Judas's treacherous and greedy intentions, chose to address him indirectly this time while defending Mary, who had already faced negative comments. “Why do you trouble this woman?” He asked. “Let her be; she has performed a commendable act for Me. You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have Me.” She has preserved this anointing oil for the day of My burial."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Upon understanding this, due to His divine all-knowing nature (see Matt. 16:8). - \\"Why do you trouble the woman?\\" Her actions arise from sincere devotion, deep belief, and a contrite heart, making it understandable that the discontent and complaints of the disciples distressed her compassionate spirit. - \\"She has performed a noble deed for Me\\" (see Matthew 26:12)."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord clearly communicated to those who complained that they had acted inappropriately in hindering the devoted efforts of the woman. While caring for the impoverished is commendable, in this instance it was neither fitting nor timely: leave her be; why trouble your wife? She has performed a commendable act for me, for you will always have the needy among you, and whenever you wish, you can assist them, but you do not always have me. The woman’s deed, marked by a profound display of reverent faith, fervor, and love for the Savior, held a special significance and deserved not criticism but universal acclaim. According to Blessed Theophylact, this act was divinely inspired, echoing the death and burial of the Lord. It embodied what needed to be done according to Jewish traditions shortly after the burial of Jesus Christ. The Lord continued, stating that the anointing of His body with this fragrance was an act of preparation for His burial. Truly, I tell you, wherever this Gospel is proclaimed throughout the entirety of the world, what she has done will be spoken of in her honor. \\n\\nThe woman faced unmerited criticism from those who witnessed her actions, but the Lord’s declaration not only educated those who murmured but also celebrated her zeal. St. John Chrysostom observed that what Christ predicted has indeed come to pass; wherever you may travel in the world, you will encounter the proclamation about this woman, who, though not renowned and lacking numerous witnesses, acted within a house—specifically, the home of a leper—and only in the company of Christ’s disciples."},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"As the Lord journeyed from Jericho to Jerusalem, He had to make a stop in Bethany. During this time, many worshippers had gathered in Jerusalem, declaring that the awaited Messiah was near. It was likely the Sabbath, which left the people undisturbed, as Bethany was beyond the permissible distance of a Sabbath walk from Jerusalem. This occurred six days prior to the Passover. In Bethany, He dined at the home of Simon, a former leper. Martha was fulfilling her customary role in preparing the meal, while Lazarus, who had been resurrected from the dead, joined them at the table. The Evangelist's mention of Lazarus raises questions: was it to highlight his restored health, or perhaps to emphasize the extraordinary nature of his presence as one returned from the grave? \\n\\nAs one of Lazarus’ sisters attended to the Lord with arrangements for the meal, the other sister, Mary, perhaps feeling rushed during Jesus' departure from Bethany and unable to express her gratitude for her brother's revival, sought to make amends. According to Jewish tradition, it was customary to wash the feet of guests and anoint their heads and feet with oils; Mary desired to honor her Savior in this way. Without considering the cost, she brought forth a vessel of the finest nard, and anointed the Lord's head and feet, wiping them with her hair as a sign of her humility before Him. \\n\\nReactions to her act varied. The disciples perceived that the nard could have been sold to aid the poor, motivated by the recent example of Zacchaeus and their ongoing commitment to help those in need. However, one disciple harbored a different intention. He, responsible for the group's small funds, sought to profit from the sale and was more interested in utilizing the money for personal gain under the guise of concern for the poor. Yet, the Lord defended Mary, dismissing the seemingly reasonable argument presented by the other disciples. He sought to remind them of His impending departure, stating that while the poor would always be present, He would not. He further explained that Mary’s anointing of Him was a preparation for burial. If one is willing to spare no expense for a burial, how much more should be offered now, as He should not be met with frugality."}]}
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