Posted by Cygnus on March 15, 1999 at 12:59:02 {MWqFN055Fza4.}:
In Reply to: To: Cygnus Re: Lazarus posted by Covert on March 15, 1999 at 10:10:03:
Hi Covert,
The account at Luke 7 is evidently not a "parallel" account to the others -- it doesn't occur in the same chronological period or location as do the others, it isn't the same Simon, and the women are different. In fact, John 11:1,2 addresses that earlier anointing and specifies that it was this "Mary." There was perhaps two and a half years time between the two events.
Now check this out.
The Song of Solomon (1:12) reads: "As long as the king is at his round table my own spikenard has given out its fragrance." This is apparently usually considered a bridal refrain (although the maiden doesn't seem to care much for the king?). Interestingly, "Mary of Bethany" didn't only anoint Jesus' head, but also his feet -- while Jesus was sitting at a table. Coincidence? Or was there more to this foot ritual than meets the eye? Jesus was quite pointed regarding the significance of his being anointed by Mary: "Truly I say to YOU, Wherever the good news is preached in all the world, what this woman did shall also be told as a remembrance of her." (Mark 14:9)
The Gospel of Phillip describes an affectionate relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene. Could she have been the "sister" of Lazarus? There are plenty of legends about how Jesus married Mary Magdalene. What do you think?
Regarding the events after verse 8 in John 12, the scene becomes quite political. Interesting that verse 17 says Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead. Maybe it is some kind of hidden reference to something besides religious connotations?
Fun stuff. :-)