LUKE 7:36–50
THE PARDON OF THE SINFUL WOMAN
Text – Luke 7:36–50
36 A Pharisee invited him to dine with him, and he entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at table.
37 A sinful woman in the city learned that he was at table and brought an alabaster flask of ointment.
38 She stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment.
39 The Pharisee said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know… that she is a sinner.”
40 Jesus said to him in reply, “Simon, I have something to say to you…”
41 He told a parable: Two people owed a debt… one much more than the other. Both were forgiven. “Which of them will love more?”
43 Simon replied, “The one who was forgiven more.” Jesus said, “You have judged rightly.”
44–47 Jesus contrasts the Pharisee’s lack of hospitality with the woman’s overwhelming love and repentance. “Her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love.”
48 He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”
50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Pharisees were respected religious leaders known for their strict observance of the Law. Dining customs in first-century Palestine included reclining at low tables, with guests’ feet behind them, which made the woman’s action physically possible and culturally bold. A woman labeled a “sinner” may have been a prostitute or public sinner, and her presence in a Pharisee’s house was scandalous. Yet Jesus turns this moment into a teaching about forgiveness and love, challenging the judgmental attitudes of the religious elite.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage beautifully illustrates the transformative power of grace and the relationship between forgiveness and love (CCC 1441–1449). Jesus has divine authority to forgive sins, a power that scandalized the Pharisees but is central to the Church’s sacramental life—especially the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The woman’s actions—tears, anointing, humility—are outward signs of deep interior repentance and love (CCC 1422–1424). Her faith led her to Jesus, and her love expressed that faith (CCC 1814–1815). This episode also emphasizes that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy.
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 51 – A psalm of deep repentance
Matthew 26:6–13 – A woman anoints Jesus at Bethany
Luke 15:11–32 – Parable of the Prodigal Son
John 8:1–11 – Jesus forgives a woman caught in adultery
James 2:13 – Mercy triumphs over judgment
Key Terms
Sinful Woman – A public sinner who shows sincere repentance
Alabaster Flask – A precious container, symbolizing costly sacrifice
Tears and Anointing – Expressions of repentance, love, and honor
Forgiveness – A gift from God that restores grace and relationship
Faith Has Saved You – Faith as the channel through which grace is received
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is read during Ordinary Time and penance services. It invites all to examine their hearts, recognize their sins, and come to Jesus with faith and humility. The woman’s story is a timeless image of the Church as both penitent and beloved, constantly renewed by the mercy of Christ.
Conclusion
In a moment of scandalous grace, Jesus shows that love and repentance open the door to forgiveness. The Pharisee saw only sin; Jesus saw faith. The woman left in peace—not because of what she did, but because she believed, loved, and received mercy. Her story is ours.
Reflection
Do I recognize my need for God’s forgiveness, or do I hide behind appearances?
Do I respond to God’s mercy with love and gratitude, or with indifference?
Who might I be tempted to judge, instead of inviting them to mercy?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You welcomed the repentant woman with tenderness and mercy. I bring You my sins and brokenness. Forgive me, heal me, and fill me with the love that flows from Your heart. Let my life be a response of gratitude to Your saving grace. Amen.