The Nature of Alabaster in Scripture
Alabaster was a precious stone, typically a form of marble or calcite, prized in the ancient world for its beauty and suitability for crafting containers and vessels. The smooth, translucent quality of alabaster made it ideal for holding valuable oils and perfumes. In biblical times, alabaster boxes or jars were considered luxury items, often passed down as family heirlooms or reserved for the most special occasions.
The scriptures primarily mention alabaster in connection with vessels containing precious ointments. These containers were not merely functional but represented significant financial investment and careful preservation of valuable contents. The choice to use alabaster reflected both the worth of what was stored inside and the reverence with which it was kept.
The Alabaster Box of Sacrifice
The most famous biblical reference to alabaster appears in the Gospels, where a woman brings "an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious" to anoint Jesus (Mark 14:3). Matthew 26:7 describes how "there came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat." Luke 7:37 tells of a sinful woman who "brought an alabaster box of ointment" and anointed Jesus' feet with her tears and the precious oil.
This act was criticized by some disciples, particularly Judas, who complained about the apparent waste of such valuable ointment. Yet Jesus defended the woman's action, declaring it a beautiful thing and preparation for His burial. The breaking of the alabaster box represents the complete surrender of something precious—not just the ointment, but the container itself, which could never be used again once broken.
Lessons for Our Worship Today
The alabaster box teaches us profound lessons about worship and sacrifice. True devotion to Christ sometimes requires breaking open our most precious possessions—our time, resources, reputation, or comfort—to honor Him. Like the woman who broke her alabaster box, we are called to offer our best to Jesus, even when others may not understand or appreciate our sacrifice. The fragrance of her offering filled the entire house, just as our genuine acts of worship and service create a sweet aroma that blesses others and honors God.
And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me. (Mark 14:6)