Definition: But when his disciples saw [it], they had indignation, saying, To what purpose [is] this waste?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 26:8. It’s a really important and dramatic moment in Jesus’s life that sets the stage for all that’s to come. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core of the Verse: “But when his disciples saw [it], they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But when his disciples saw [it]…” – This refers to a specific event that happened during Jesus's final moments. It was a moment of intense surprise and questioning. The disciples were Jesus’s closest followers, and they were witnessing something extraordinary - he was being arrested! “…they had indignation…” – “Indignation” means anger, frustration, or a strong feeling of displeasure. It wasn't just a simple annoyance; it was a deep, almost painful sense of wrongness . They felt like something was fundamentally amiss. “saying, To what purpose is this waste?” - This is the crucial part. The disciples are asking: “Why is this happening? Why is this wasted time and effort? What’s the point of all this drama?” So, what's the overall message? Jesus’s actions – his arrest, betrayal, and ultimately crucifixion – aren’t just a tragic event. It's a challenge to their understanding of God's plan. They are questioning why he is doing this, when it seems so pointless and disruptive to the established order. Why is this important? This verse highlights several things: Disbelief: The disciples’ indignation shows that they weren’t immediately accepting Jesus's teachings or his message of love and forgiveness. They were grappling with a fundamental question about meaning and purpose. Their Struggle: It speaks to the difficulty of understanding God’s will, especially when it seems to contradict our own desires or expectations. A Turning Point: This moment is a crucial turning point in Jesus's ministry. It lays the groundwork for his suffering and ultimately, his sacrifice. In short, this verse captures the initial shock and questioning of the disciples – they’re asking why this is happening, and it sets the stage for their eventual disappointment. --- Would you like me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Relate this passage to other Bible stories or themes?