Who was Mary of Bethany?
Quick answer
Mary of Bethany was the sister of Martha and Lazarus, known for sitting at Jesus’ feet to learn (Luke 10), for grieving with him at Lazarus’ tomb (John 11), and for anointing him with costly perfume before his death (John 12).
She chose "the good portion" by sitting at Jesus’ feet while Martha bustled. Jesus defended her.
Her anointing of Jesus shortly before his crucifixion drew Jesus’ promise: "wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her."
Mary represents devoted love at Jesus’ feet — a model of worship that costs everything.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.