Matthew 26:6

In Bethany - For a solution of the difficulties in this verse, about the time of the anointing, see the observations at the end of this chapter.

Simon the Leper - This was probably no more than a surname, as Simon the Canaanite, Matthew 10:4, and Barsabas Justus, Acts 1:23, and several others. Yet it might have been some person that Christ had healed of this disease. See Matthew 11:5.

In Bethany - See the notes at Matthew 21:1.

Simon the leper - Simon, who had been a leper.

Leper - See the notes at Matthew 8:1. It was unlawful to eat with persons that had the leprosy, and it is more than probable, therefore, that this Simon had been healed - perhaps by our Lord himself. John Joh 12:1 says that this was the house where Lazarus was, who had been raised from the dead. Probably Lazarus was a relative of Simon's, and was living with him. Further, he says that they made a supper for Jesus, and that Martha served. He says that this was six days before the Passover. From the order in which Matthew and Mark mention it, it would have been supposed that it was but two days before the Passover, and after the cleansing of the temple; but it is to be observed,

1. that Matthew and Mark often neglect the exact order of the events that they record.

2. that they do not "affirm" at what time this was. They leave it indefinite, saying that "while" Jesus was in Bethany he was anointed by Mary.

3. that Matthew introduced it here for the purpose of giving a "connected" account of the conduct of "Judas." "Judas" complained at the waste of the ointment John 12:4, and one of the effects of his indignation, it seems, was to betray his Lord.

26:6 14:3 .