Mark 14:5

5 It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages^[a] and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly.

Mark 14:5 in Other Translations

5 For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor. ” And they scolded her.

5 “It could have been sold for a year’s wages and the money given to the poor!” So they scolded her harshly.

5 This perfume could have been sold for well over a year's wages and handed out to the poor." They swelled up in anger, nearly bursting with indignation over her.

5 For this ointment might have been sold for above three hundred shillings, and given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

5 This perfume could have been sold for a high price, and the money could have been given to the poor." So they said some very unkind things to her.

5 For this oil might have been sold for more than 300 denarii and given to the poor." And they began to scold her.

5 It could have been sold for more than a year's pay. The money could have been given to poor people." So they found fault with the woman.

Mark 14:5 Meaning and Commentary

Mark 14:5

For it might have been sold for more than three hundred
pence
Which, was to the value of our money nine pounds, seven shillings, and sixpence:

and given to the poor;
which was thought to be a better way of expending it, than by pouring it on the head of Christ:

and they murmured against her:
that she should lavish so much money away in such an imprudent manner; they reproved her for it, expressed much resentment at it, and were very angry with, her upon the account of it; (See Gill on Matthew 26:8), (See Gill on Matthew 26:9).

Mark 14:5 In-Context

3 While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.

4 Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume?

5 It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly.

6 “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.

7 The poor you will always have with you,and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me.

Footnotes

• [a] Greek "than three hundred denarii"