Which Mary? Who Was the Woman with the Alabaster Jar?
One of the most beautiful and misunderstood moments in the Gospels is when a woman breaks an alabaster jar of perfume and anoints Jesus. But who was she? Over the centuries, people have merged three different women in the New Testament into one single figure, often wrongly identifying her as a repentant prostitute. This confusion has led to a distorted image of some of the most faithful women in the life of Jesus. Many Christians who study and preach get confused with Marys. So, let's get the facts correct and Unlearn. Let's meet the Marys The Three Women Often Confused 1. Mary of Bethany • Sister of Lazarus and Martha • Known for sitting at Jesus’ feet and anointing Him with very expensive perfume • A true worshipper — never called a sinner or prostitute coz she was from a rich family. In John 12, she brings a pure nard in an alabaster jar, anoints Jesus’ feet, and wipes them with her hair. Jesus says she was preparing Him for burial. 2. Mary Magdalene • From Magdala, d...