Mary Magdalene: A Union of Souls
Mary Magdalene is often referred to as the “Apostle to the Apostles,” but another title she’s associated with is “Myrrhophore” or “Bearer of Myrrh.” This title hints at her deep knowledge and practice of anointing with sacred oils, a practice with roots that dive deep into ancient spiritual Desert Rose traditions.
One of the most poignant moments in the New Testament is when Mary Magdalene anoints Yeshua´s feet with precious spikenard oil, wiping them with her hair (John 12:3). This act was more than mere adulation; it was a ritualistic practice symbolizing consecration, purification, and preparation for his forthcoming journey beyond the cross. The oil, in this context, becomes a conduit for divine grace, protection, and benediction.
To understand the profound significance of this act, we must travel back in time to the cultural and spiritual tapestries of the ancient Near East and even further. In these cultures, the feet were considered not only the physical foundation of the body but also symbolically represented one’s journey, humility, and connection to the Earth.
Anointing, in general, was an act that transcended the mundane. When associated with feet, it denoted a blessing for one’s path, a consecration of their journey, and a profound act of service and humility. The choice of spikenard, a costly and aromatic oil, amplifies the sanctity of this gesture.
In many ancient traditions, hair symbolized strength, virility, and personal essence. Consider the biblical story of Samson and Delilah, where Samson’s hair was the source of his strength. Offering one’s hair, then, was a deeply personal sacrifice. Using it to wipe another’s feet accentuated the act’s vulnerability and intimacy.
In the cultural milieu of the ancient Near East, for a woman to unbind her hair in the presence of a man was an act of unparalleled intimacy. It was reserved for the most private moments, often denoting a marital bond or the intent of forming one.
When Mary Magdalene anoints Yeshua´s feet and wipes them with her hair, it can be interpreted as an act that transcends traditional betrothal or marriage rituals. The act symbolically speaks of a union of souls, a deep spiritual bond that marries the divine and human essence. It’s a union not confined to earthly definitions only, but also speaks of spiritual intimacy, trust, and surrender.
The Essenes and the Art of Essential Oils
The Essenes, a mystical Jewish sect that thrived from the 2nd century BCE to the 1st century CE, were known for their holistic approach to spirituality. They incorporated practices that nurtured the body, mind, and soul. One of these practices was the use of essential oils derived from various plants and resins, which they believed could facilitate spiritual growth, healing, and deeper connection to the Divine.
The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the mid-20th century, provide glimpses into the life and practices of the Essenes. Among these ancient texts are references to oil concoctions used for various purposes – from ritualistic ceremonies to therapeutic treatments.
Oils in Biblical Traditions
The Bible itself is filled with references to the use of oils, indicating their significance in ancient Jewish and early Christian rituals:
Anointing of Aaron and his sons: In the book of Exodus (30:22-30), a detailed recipe for a sacred anointing oil is given, comprising myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia, and olive oil. This oil was used to consecrate Aaron and his sons into the priestly office.
The consecration of sacred spaces: Oils were used to purify and sanctify spaces. For example, the Tabernacle, a sacred space for the Israelites during their wanderings in the desert, was anointed with specially consecrated oil to make it holy (Leviticus 8:10).
Healing and purification: Oils, often infused with myrrh, frankincense, and other resins, were used for cleansing rituals, particularly in the purification of lepers (Leviticus 14).
On September 24th, I will be facilitating a Biblical Myrraphore Purification Ritual. This is the first time I offer a sacred Myrraphore Ritual outside of the Mary Magdalene Priest-ess training. Additionally, it has been years since I last shared this ritual with anyone. I had the privilege of conducting this ceremony for one of my revered teachers in Egypt while residing in Cairo, extending it also to his disciples. This presents a unique chance for you to experience this Desert Rose Ritual, coinciding with the Day of Purification, known to the Hebrews as Yom Kippur. Yeshua referred to this day as the Seal of Alaha’s Breath.
There are limited spaces for this Ceremony due to its sacredness.
CLICK HERE to register.
I know that many of you in this community work profoundly with Essential Oils. I would love to know your experience and you can write under this Blog Post.
And how do you feel with the image of Mary Magdalene wiping Yeshua´s feet with her hair.
I also want to say thank you again for all of you who attended Shabbat and the donations that go to the Desert Rose Foundation. We are helping children in India with their Clothing, Food and Education and currently helping the victims of the Morocco Earthquake. INFINITE GRATITUDE.
Have a beautiful Monday.
Love to all of you.
AHAVA,
Ana Otero
