Bible Dictionaries
Nard

Holman Bible Dictionary

An expensive fragrance derived from the roots of the herb nardostachys jatamansi . The term appears twice in the Song of Solomon (Romans 1:12; Romans 4:13-14 ) and in two of the gospel accounts of the woman anointing Jesus at Simon's house in Bethany (Mark 14:3; John 12:3; “spikenard,” KJV). The disciples rebuked her for this action, stating that the ointment could have been sold for a sizeable sum and the proceeds donated to the poor.