μυρίζω

I anoint

Definition

The verb μυρίζω means 'to anoint,' specifically with perfumed oil or ointment. In the New Testament, it refers to the act of applying aromatic substances to a person's body, often as a gesture of honor, preparation, or devotion. Its sole biblical occurrence is in Mark 14:8, where a woman anoints Jesus' body beforehand for burial, highlighting a preparatory and symbolic act. While the general sense is 'to anoint,' the context emphasizes the use of costly, fragrant ointment rather than a simple application of oil.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Mark 14:8. Jesus uses it to describe the woman's action of anointing him with expensive perfumed oil. The context is a meal in Bethany, where her act is presented as a prophetic preparation for his impending burial. The usage is singular and deeply symbolic, contrasting with more common anointing verbs used for healing or ceremonial purposes.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun μύρον (myron), meaning 'ointment,' 'perfume,' or 'fragrant oil.' The verb μυρίζω literally means 'to apply μύρον.' It is related to words for myrrh, indicating a connection to aromatic resins. The root emphasizes anointing with something fragrant and precious, not merely oil.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures a unique, prophetic act of devotion toward Jesus. In Mark 14:8, Jesus interprets the anointing as preparation for his burial, directly linking it to his sacrificial death. Understanding μυρίζω enriches reading by highlighting the intentional, costly, and anticipatory nature of the woman's worship, which Jesus declares will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached.

In ancient Mediterranean culture, anointing with perfumed oil was a practice for honoring guests, caring for the dead, and signifying luxury or devotion. The use of expensive ointment (νάρδος πιστικῆς πολυτελοῦς in Mark 14:3) represented a substantial financial sacrifice. This contrasts with modern understandings of anointing, which often lack this specific association with fragrant burial preparations and high social cost.

ἀλείφω (aleiphō, G218) — a more general verb for anointing, often used for medicinal or ordinary anointing with oil (e.g., Matthew 6:17, James 5:14). χρίω (chriō, G5548) — a sacred or ceremonial anointing, often used for consecrating people to office (e.g., Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38).

Word Details

Scripture References