Strong’s Greek 927 depicts something of surpassing worth, an object whose value is felt by its sheer “weight” of preciousness. It is not a casual adjective for high price but a word reserved for possessions esteemed so highly that their worth becomes almost burdensome to bear or surrender.

Scriptural Occurrence

Matthew 26:7: “a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He was reclining at the table.” This solitary New Testament appearance is enough to anchor the word’s force. The priceless perfume functions as a silent commentary on Christ’s unique worthiness; its extravagance gains meaning only in relation to the One on whom it is lavished.

Historical and Cultural Background

Alabaster vessels filled with aromatic nard were luxury imports from India. The cost frequently equaled a laborer’s annual wage. To shatter such a vessel and empty its contents signaled irrevocable devotion. In first-century Judea, social custom dictated moderation at banquets; ostentatious displays risked scandal. Therefore, the woman’s act not only sacrificed material wealth but also her reputation, underscoring that true worship is prepared to endure social reproach for the sake of honoring the Messiah.

Theological Significance

1. Pre-figuration of Christ’s Burial: Jesus interprets the anointing as preparation for His burial (Matthew 26:12). The “very costly” fragrance anticipates the costly redemption He will accomplish.
2. Contrast with Judas’s Betrayal: Immediately afterward, Judas negotiates to sell the Lord for thirty silver coins (Matthew 26:14-16). The narrative juxtaposes βαρυτίμου devotion against the cheap price of treachery, inviting every reader to ask which appraisal of Christ they truly hold.
3. Worship over Utilitarianism: The disciples’ protest, “Why this waste?” (Matthew 26:8), exposes a utilitarian mindset. Jesus defends the woman, teaching that acts of pure adoration can supersede even legitimate charitable concerns when offered at His prompting (Matthew 26:10-11).

Related Old Testament Concepts

The Hebrew Bible routinely links weight with worth. Proverbs 3:15 praises wisdom as “more precious than rubies,” and 2 Samuel 24:24 records David’s resolve to offer God what costs him something. The notion culminates in Isaiah 43:4 where the Lord calls Israel “precious” (Septuagint: τίμιος) in His sight. βαρυτίμου thus resonates with a long-standing biblical theme: true value is measured by the honor it ascribes to God.

Christological Insight

The perfume’s fragrance fills the house (John 12:3). Paul later speaks of believers as “the aroma of Christ” (2 Corinthians 2:15). The costly outpouring foreshadows Christ’s own self-offering, which releases the saving “fragrance” of the Gospel. Every subsequent believer becomes a living echo of that initial act, spreading knowledge of Him “everywhere.”

Practical Ministry Implications

• Sacrificial Giving: Ministries must guard against equating stewardship with stinginess. There remains a place for lavish generosity whenever it springs from Spirit-led love for Jesus.
• Worship Priority: Programs and philanthropy must never eclipse direct adoration of Christ. Corporate gatherings should allow space for expressions of costly worship—time, resources, or reputation surrendered for His glory.
• Valuing People: If Christ is worthy of βαρυτίμου homage, those created in His image also carry weighty honor (James 3:9-10). The Church’s service to the poor is elevated, not diminished, by wholehearted worship.

Exhortation for Contemporary Discipleship

Believers are urged to consider what prized possession—time, talent, treasure, or status—remains unbroken at Jesus’ feet. Following the woman’s example, we are called to recognize His surpassing worth and to act accordingly, confident that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).