ANOINTING
Anointing in bible is a ritual where aromatic oil is poured over someone’s head or body. It can also include acts like sprinkling, dousing, or smearing a person or object with perfumed oil, milk, butter, or fat. Scented oils not only serve as perfumes but also symbolise hospitality when shared. Anointing has been practised since ancient times to invoke a divine influence or presence, and it was also used as a medicinal practice.
“olive oil for the light; spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense” ( Exodus 25:6 )
The present verb derives from the now obsolete adjective anoint, equivalent to anointed] The adjective is first attested in 1303, derived from Old French enoint, the past participle of enoindre, from Latin inung(u)ere, an intensified form of ung(u)ere (“to anoint”). It is thus cognate with “unction”.
The oil used in a ceremonial anointment may be called “chrism” (from Greek χρῖσμα, khrîsma, “anointing”).
“Take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head.”
( Exodus 29:7 )
Etymology
Hebrew:
The Hebrew word for “anointing” is “מְשִׁיחָה” ( mashach ), which comes from the root ” מְשִׁיחָה ” ( mashach ). This root signifies the act of anointing with oil, which was a common practice in ancient Israel for consecrating individuals for specific roles, such as priests, kings, and prophets.
Greek:
In the New Testament, the Greek word for “anointing” is “χρῖσμα” ( chrisma ), derived from the root “χρίω” ( chriō ). This root also conveys the act of anointing with oil and is often associated with the empowering or consecration of individuals for spiritual service or leadership roles
What does it mean to be anointed in the Bible?
“Being anointed” refers to a sacred ritual where oil consecrates individuals or objects, making them holy and set apart. This anointing in the Bible symbolised God’s selection and sanctification for a specific divine purpose.
“Say to the Israelites, ‘This is to be my sacred anointing oil for future generations.” ( Exodus 30:31 )
“Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy. ( Exodus 40:9 )
“Then Moses took some of the anointing oil and some of the blood from the altar and sprinkled them on Aaron and his garments and on his sons and their garments. So he consecrated Aaron and his garments and his sons and their garments.” ( Leviticus 8:30 )
The Origins of Anointing in Bible
Anointing finds its roots in ancient times, spanning across different cultures and religious traditions. In the Bible, it holds a crucial place, where it is mentioned numerous times, from the anointing of priests and kings to the anointing of objects in the tabernacle and temple.
“Take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head.” ( Exodus 29:7 )
“You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” ( Hebrews 1:
Symbolism and Significance
Anointing in the Bible carries profound symbolism. The act of pouring or smearing fragrant oils represents consecration, setting apart individuals or objects as holy and dedicated to God’s service. This act not only signifies divine approval but also bestows blessings, protection, and empowerment.
“Then Samuel took a flask of olive oil and poured it on Saul’s head and kissed him, saying, “Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over his inheritance?” ( 1 Samuel 10:1 )
“Then Moses took the anointing oil and anointed the tabernacle and everything in it, and so consecrated them”
( Leviticus 8:10 )
Anointing of Leaders
In biblical history, anointing was often associated with the appointment of leaders. Prophets, priests, and kings were anointed to mark their divine calling and authority. The anointing oil symbolized the presence of the Holy Spirit, granting wisdom, power, and guidance to fulfil their respective roles.
So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the LORD said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah. ( 1 Samuel 16:12-13 )
This is the portion of the food offerings presented to the LORD that were allotted to Aaron and his sons on the day
they were presented to serve the LORD as priests. ( Leviticus 7:35 )When the altar was anointed, the leaders brought their offerings for its dedication and presented them before the altar. ( Numbers 7:10 )
Healing and Restoration
Anointing is not limited to individuals in positions of authority. In the Bible, anointing was also used as a therapeutic practice for physical and spiritual healing. The anointing oil was believed to possess medicinal properties, offering relief and restoration to those in need.
Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. ( James 5:14 )
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, ( Luke 4:18 )
Anointing in Bible as a Spiritual Practice
Anointing is not merely a ritualistic act but also serves as a spiritual practice in the Bible. It is a way for believers to seek God’s presence, invite His favour, and consecrate themselves for His purposes. Anointing can be seen as a tangible expression of faith, surrender, and dependence on God’s grace.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
( Psalm 23:5 )
Hebrew culture
In the ancient Hebrew culture, the act of anointing oneself with olive oil was highly meaningful. It was a common practice for individuals to anoint themselves with oil as part of their regular hygiene routine. This not only served as a way to take care of oneself, but it also symbolized the concepts of purification and consecration.
During times of mourning, it was not customary to anoint oneself with oil. This was seen as a way to show respect and honor to the deceased. The focus during periods of grief shifted towards mourning and reflection, and the act of anointing was set aside during these times.
On the other hand, hospitality was greatly valued in Hebrew society, and anointing played a significant role in the customs of welcoming guests. Hosts would often anoint the heads and feet of their guests as a gesture of honour and hospitality. This act was seen as a way to refresh and rejuvenate the guests after their journey, symbolizing their importance and worth.
The anointing of Jesus in Bible
The anointing of Jesus is a profound and spiritually significant event in the life of our Savior.
Messiah” comes from the Hebrew word Mashiach, meaning “ anointed one” or “chosen one.” In Hebrew, the Messiah is often referred to as melekh Mashiach ( מלך משיח ; Tiberian: Meleḵ ha-Mašīaḥ, pronounced [ˈmeleχ hamaˈʃiaħ] ), literally meaning ‘the Anointed King’.
In Old Testament Israel, people were anointed with oil to consecrate themselves to God for a specific role. This practice began early. Aaron was anointed to be the first high priest of Israel.
He poured some of the anointing oil on Aaron’s head and anointed him to consecrate him. ( Leviticus 8:12 )
A Divine Act of Honor:
The anointing of Jesus, as described in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John, was an act of deep honour and reverence. A woman pours expensive perfume on Jesus’ head, anointing him. This act symbolizes the recognition of Jesus’ divine nature and his role as the Messiah.
“While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly. “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me” ( Mark 14:3-6)
Preparation for Burial:
Jesus himself acknowledges the significance of this anointing by stating “She has done what she could. She has anointed my body beforehand for burial.” This anointing serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ impending crucifixion and burial, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of his mission.
“The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” ( Mark 14:8 )
Extravagant Sacrifice and Love:
The act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume reflects the woman’s deep love and devotion. The perfume, known as pure nard, was highly valuable and precious. By pouring it on Jesus, she demonstrates her willingness to offer her most precious possessions as an expression of love and dedication.
Lessons for Believers:
The anointing of Jesus teaches us valuable lessons about sacrificial love and devotion. Just as the woman poured out her most valuable possessions, we are encouraged to offer our lives and resources wholeheartedly in service to God and others. It reminds us of the importance of selflessness and genuine worship.
Spiritual Significance:
Beyond the physical act of anointing, this event holds spiritual significance. Anointing represents the pouring out of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus, equipping him for his ministry on earth. It symbolizes the divine presence and empowerment bestowed upon him to preach the good news, heal the sick, and set the captives free.
“how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil because God was with him.” ( Acts 10:38 )
The Anointing of Elisha: A Prophetic Successor Emerges
God instructs the prophet Elijah to anoint Elisha as his successor. This anointing signifies the passing of the prophetic mantle from Elijah to Elisha, symbolizing that Elisha would continue God’s work as a prophet after Elijah’s departure.
“Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.” ( 1 Kings 19:16 )
The significance of this moment is that Elisha’s anointing as a prophet establishes him as a leader and a chosen vessel of God’s message. It marks a turning point in Elisha’s life, as he transitions from being a disciple of Elijah to becoming a prophet in his own right. This event sets the stage for the subsequent chapters of 1 Kings, where we witness Elisha performing many miracles, such as parting the Jordan River, multiplying oil for a widow, and even raising the dead. Through these powerful acts, Elisha proves himself as a faithful servant of God and continues the important work of delivering God’s messages to the people
"Unveiling the Significance of Anointed Pillars and Tabernacles in Biblical Scriptures"
Discover the profound symbolism behind anointed pillars and tabernacles in the Bible, as we explore the stories of Jacob and the Israelites in,
“Early the next morning Jacob took the stone he had placed under his head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. He called that place Bethel, though the city used to be called Luz” ( Genesis 28:18 )
From divine encounters to sacred rituals, these acts of anointing hold significant spiritual and historical importance. Jacob, on his journey towards Haran, encountered God in a dream and anointed a pillar with oil. This act of anointing symbolized Jacob’s recognition of the divine presence and marked the place as a holy site. The anointed pillar served as a physical reminder of his encounter, representing a connection between heaven and earth.
“the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand.” ( Exodus 30:28 )
Moving forward to, we witness the Israelites anointing the Tabernacle and its utensils. The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for worship, played a central role in their religious practices. By anointing it with sacred oil, the Israelites demonstrated their reverence and consecration of the space to God. This anointing signified the divine presence dwelling among them and sanctified the Tabernacle as a place of worship and communion.
The act of anointing, whether a pillar or a tabernacle, holds deeper symbolic meaning. It signifies a spiritual consecration, a setting apart for divine purposes. In both instances, anointing served as a tangible expression of faith and devotion, heightening the sanctity of these spaces and objects
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Anointing of the Disciples in Bible
The anointing of disciples holds immense significance within biblical teachings, representing a divine empowerment bestowed upon followers of Jesus Christ,this sacred act empowered them to carry out their mission and spread the teachings of Jesus.
Anointing of the Twelve Apostles:
One notable instance of anointing is found in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew, Jesus anoints the twelve disciples by bestowing upon them authority to preach, heal the sick, and cast out demons. This act signifies a divine commission and empowers the disciples to fulfil their calling.
“Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them
authority over impure spirits. These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter
a house, stay there until you leave that town. And if any place will not welcome you or
listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against
them.” They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons
and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.”
( Mark 6: 7-13 )“jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and
to heal every disease and sickness.
These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his
brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew;
Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;
Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the
Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As
you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ 8 Heal the sick,
raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,[a] drive out demons. Freely you have
received; freely give.”
( Matthew 10 : 1-8 )
The Anointing of the Holy Spirit:
In the book of Acts, we witness the powerful anointing of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples, often referred to as the “baptism of the Holy Spirit.” This transformative event took place during the day of Pentecost.
“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” ( Acts 2 : 1-4 ).
By anointing the disciples with the Holy Spirit, they were bestowed with spiritual gifts and divine power to boldly proclaim the gospel message and perform miraculous acts. This anointing became a catalyst for the rapid growth of the early Christian church.
Anointing’s Impact:
Several scriptures highlight the transformative effect of anointing upon the disciples.
Acts 1:8 states, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This verse emphasizes the connection between anointing and empowerment, indicating that the Holy Spirit’s anointing brings forth the power necessary to fulfil their mission. The profound impact of anointing upon the disciples: “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” This verse depicts how anointing emboldened the disciples, enabling them to speak fearlessly and with authority.
“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” ( Acts 4:31 )
The Continuing Influence of Anointing:
The anointing of disciples did not end with the early Christian church. Today, many Christians seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit to receive spiritual gifts, guidance, and empowerment in their lives.
“As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. ( 1 John 2:27 )
From ancient times to the present day, anointing remains a powerful and transformative practice. It invites us to honour the divine within ourselves and others, infusing our lives with a sense of sacredness and purpose. By embracing the tradition of anointing, we can cultivate a deeper connection with the divine and nurture our spiritual growth.