Recently at the Think Conference 2026, I was listening to the case being made for two distinct occasions in which perfume was poured over Jesus head. One recorded by Matthew, Mark & John at the end of Jesus’ ministry, and a separate occasion recorded by Luke at the start. It got me wondering perhaps it was two separate occasions but one singular protagonist. Here’s the logic:
Rather than two separate women carrying out a highly unusual act – it’s more straightforward to conceive of a single repeat offender.
It explains the close relationship that Jesus had with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.
The event recorded in Luke would have been precious to Mary. Something she would love to replicate one more time in anticipation of Jesus death.
Why did Luke chose not to name Mary as the woman? Perhaps he was keen to protect her ongoing reputation in the Jerusalem church. But more likely the naming of the women as Mary would have detracted from the point of the story of Jesus interaction with a sinful woman
