The Anointing of Jesus at Bethany

John's evocation of Song of Songs 1-12, while the king was on his couch, My Nord gave forth its fragrance. The Nord-cented air that fills the house contrasts with the stench of the tomb. But we might also see Jesus' statements concerning his coming burial in a new light. It is jarring when we consider that Mary's action is one of overwhelming gratitude to Jesus for raising her brother from death. Why refer to the grave just where we might have thought we were celebrating its defeat?