ACC ~ Mark 14 v3b

WHY NARD?

JEROME: This woman is outside the temple and carries with her a jar of ointment containing nard, genuine nard, from which she has prepared the ointment. [1] This is why the faithful are called “genuine” or pure nard. The church, gathered from the nations, is offering the Savior the abounding faith of believers. The alabaster jar which had been sealed [2] is broken that all may receive its perfume. HOMILIES OF SAINT JEROME, HOMILY 84. [3]

[1] Cf. Mt 26:7; Mk 14:3; Lk 7:37.

[2] The fulfillment of Hebrew prophecy had until now been sealed.

[3] Cetedoc 0594, 10.78; FC 57:189**.

THE MEANING OF NARD

BEDE: It was compounded from spikenard which was pure (that is, untainted and unadulterated with other different kinds), and which was precious, to imply the chastity of perfect faith and action. EXPOSITION ON THE GOSPEL OF MARK 2.4. [1]

[1] Cetedoc 1367, 2.4.102; HOG 2:37.

HEAD AND FEET ANOINTED

BEDE: His head, which Mary anointed, represents the sublimity of his deity. His feet indicate the lowliness of his incarnation. [1] We too anoint his feet when we proclaim with due praise the mystery of the incarnation which he took upon himself. We too anoint his head when we venerate the loftiness of his divinity with a consent fitting to him. EXPOSITION ON THE GOSPEL OF MARK 2.4. [2]

[1] Cf. Jn 12:3.

[2] Cetedoc 1367, 2.4.105; HOG 2:37**. Hence, by their praise of the mystery of the incarnation and consent to Christ’s lordship, the faithful continue to take part in his anointing.