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HomeBible CommentaryLukeChapter 7Luke 7:38

Luke 7:38 meaning

In a powerful moment of humility and devotion, a woman known as a sinner demonstrated profound love and gratitude towards Jesus. During a dinner at the house of a Pharisee, she entered carrying an alabaster jar of expensive perfume. The customs of the time dictated certain hospitality rituals, which the Pharisee neglected, showcasing his lack of respect for Jesus. In contrast, this woman expressed her affection by washing Jesus' feet with her tears, wiping them with her hair, and anointing them with perfume.

This scene, found in Luke 7:38, illustrates a significant theme: the depth of one’s love often correlates with the awareness of one’s forgiveness. The woman's actions highlight her understanding of grace, contrasting sharply with the judgmental scrutiny of her surroundings. Jesus pointedly contrasts her actions with Simon the Pharisee's indifference, teaching that forgiveness leads to a profound love for the Forgiver. This reminds us that recognizing our own need for grace can transform our lives and lead to genuine acts of devotion.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • 2 Samuel 7:8-9a meaning. The Davidic Covenant’s Foundation in the LORD: The LORD of hosts states the foundation of His covenant with David. He reminds David of his humble beginnings as a shepherd, and of his many escapes from and victories over his enemies. God tells David that He was the Doer and Cause of all of this and that He has been with David at every moment of his journey from the pasture to the palace. 
  • Acts 14:19-23 meaning. The enemies of Paul and Barnabas have been coalescing and colluding. Jews from Pisidian Antioch have joined with Jews from Iconium. This mob arrives in Lystra, stirs up hatred in the crowds, and successfully stones Paul. The mob thinks he is dead and leaves his body outside of the city. But believers find his body, and Paul stands up, alive, and returns to the city. Barnabas and Paul preach in a neighboring city, Derbe, and then backtrack through the churches they have planted. They establish a group of men to lead as elders over each church, and encourage all the new believers to endure suffering by trusting in God.
  • Isaiah 9:1-7 meaning. Isaiah 9:1-7 promises that God will replace the despair and oppression of Israel—especially in the northern regions once humiliated by invasion—with a decisive “light” that brings joy, freedom, and lasting peace. This hope centers on the arrival of a royal child from David’s line whose rule will be righteous, just, and eternal. His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. God Himself guarantees that this kingdom will grow without end and that peace will ultimately triumph over violence.