When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Mark 16:1

            The main reason for the spices and perfumes was to cover up the smell of decomposition.  It was a way to honor the dead.  They didn’t bury people in the ground which would cover up that smell.  They put them in above ground tombs (such as Lazarus) which could give off an odor.  Spices such as myrrh and aloes were used that gave off a nice smell.  When the women went to Jesus’ grave to cover up the smell, it was apparent they didn’t believe he would rise from the dead.