Bible Dictionary

A Visit With Jesus
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Spikenard

Agriculture & Daily Life • Both
Spikenard was a costly perfume made from an aromatic plant imported from the East. Mary used precious nard to anoint Jesus, expressing devoted love and honor.
Biblical Usage
Spikenard is mentioned in the Song of Solomon. In the New Testament, Mary used very precious nard to anoint Jesus at Bethany. Its great cost caused some witnesses to object to the apparent expense of the offering.
Scripture References
Song of Solomon 1:12 Song of Solomon 4:13 Song of Solomon 4:14 Mark 14:3 John 12:3 John 12:5 Mark 14:3-5 Matthew 20:2