Introduction
Mary of Bethany is a significant figure in the Gospels, renowned for her devotion to Jesus Christ and her spiritual insight. She is identified as the sister of Martha and Lazarus and lived in the village of Bethany, approximately two miles from Jerusalem. Mary is primarily mentioned in the Gospel accounts of Luke, John, and, indirectly, Mark and Matthew. Her actions and words illustrate a profound example of faith, love, and discipleship.
Family and Background
Mary was part of a prominent family in Bethany. Her siblings, Martha and Lazarus, are also notable figures in the Gospel narratives. The family likely had some wealth, as their home is described as spacious enough to host Jesus and his disciples, and they are portrayed as respected members of their community.
Bethany, located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, was a frequent stop for Jesus during His ministry, especially as He traveled to and from Jerusalem. It served as a place of rest and refuge for Jesus, and Mary, Martha, and Lazarus played a pivotal role in providing Him hospitality and support.
Mary’s Encounters with Jesus
1. Mary and Martha: Choosing the Better Part (Luke 10:38-42)
Mary first appears in the Gospel of Luke when Jesus visits their home. While Martha busies herself with preparations, Mary chooses to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His teaching. When Martha complains that Mary is not helping, Jesus gently defends Mary, saying:
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42, NIV).
This moment highlights Mary’s spiritual hunger and her deep understanding of the significance of Jesus’ words. Sitting at a teacher’s feet was a position reserved for disciples, typically men, making Mary’s actions both bold and indicative of her close relationship with Jesus.
2. The Raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-44)
Mary’s faith is prominently displayed in the account of her brother Lazarus’s death. When Lazarus falls ill, Mary and Martha send word to Jesus, trusting that He can heal him. However, Jesus delays His arrival, and Lazarus dies.
When Jesus finally arrives, both sisters confront Him, expressing their grief and faith. Mary’s words, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:32), reflect both sorrow and belief in Jesus’ power.
Moved by their grief, Jesus performs one of His most significant miracles: He raises Lazarus from the dead. This event not only strengthens Mary’s faith but also cements the family’s role in the unfolding narrative of Jesus’ ministry and Passion.
3. Anointing of Jesus (John 12:1-8; Mark 14:3-9; Matthew 26:6-13)
Perhaps Mary’s most memorable act is her anointing of Jesus. Six days before the Passover, Jesus dines at the home of Simon the Leper in Bethany. Mary takes a jar of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and anoints Jesus’ feet (John) or His head (Matthew and Mark). She then wipes His feet with her hair, an act of profound humility and love.
Judas Iscariot criticizes Mary for what he sees as wastefulness, suggesting the perfume could have been sold and the proceeds given to the poor. However, Jesus defends Mary, stating:
“Leave her alone… It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me” (John 12:7-8, NIV).
This act is interpreted as a prophetic gesture, anticipating Jesus’ death and burial. Mary’s willingness to give something so valuable signifies her understanding of Jesus’ mission and her complete devotion to Him.
Mary’s Character and Legacy
1. Spiritual Insight
Mary of Bethany stands out for her spiritual depth. She seems to grasp the significance of Jesus’ mission more than many of His disciples, as evidenced by her attentive listening and her anointing of Jesus for burial.
2. Devotion and Love
Mary’s actions consistently demonstrate her deep love for Jesus. Whether sitting at His feet, grieving Lazarus, or anointing Him with costly perfume, Mary places Jesus at the center of her life.
3. Courage and Boldness
In a cultural context where women were often relegated to the background, Mary’s behavior was countercultural. By sitting at Jesus’ feet, anointing Him publicly, and using her hair to wipe His feet, she displayed remarkable courage and disregard for societal norms in her pursuit of closeness with Christ.
Later Tradition and Speculation
While Mary of Bethany is a distinct figure in the Gospels, some traditions have conflated her with Mary Magdalene or the unnamed sinful woman in Luke 7:36-50. However, most modern scholars and the Church distinguish these figures. Mary of Bethany is celebrated for her unique role in Jesus’ ministry, particularly her unwavering faith and her intimate, personal relationship with Him.
Feast Day and Recognition
Mary of Bethany is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and Anglican Communion. Her feast day is celebrated on July 29, alongside Martha and Lazarus in the Roman Catholic Church, emphasizing the sanctity of their family. The Orthodox Church commemorates her on June 4.
Conclusion
Mary of Bethany’s life offers a powerful example of faith, devotion, and spiritual insight. Through her interactions with Jesus, she exemplifies the ideal disciple, one who listens, believes, and acts out of love. Her story continues to inspire Christians to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else, making her one of the most beloved figures in the Gospel narrative.
