The concept of anointing is deeply rooted in biblical tradition, encompassing both physical and spiritual dimensions. In its simplest form, to anoint means to apply oil or another substance to a person or object, often as part of a religious ritual. From a biblical perspective, anointing holds significant spiritual symbolism, representing consecration, empowerment, and the presence of God’s favor. The practice of anointing is seen throughout the Bible, from the anointing of kings and priests in the Old Testament to the spiritual anointing of believers in the New Testament.
The Biblical Meaning of Anointing
Anointing in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, anointing was a common practice used to consecrate or set apart individuals or objects for a specific, holy purpose. The act of anointing with oil symbolized God’s blessing, empowerment, and the setting apart of a person or object for divine service.
Anointing of Kings and Priests
One of the most prominent examples of anointing in the Old Testament is the anointing of kings and priests. Kings were anointed as a sign of their divine appointment to lead God’s people. For example, the prophet Samuel anointed Saul and later David as kings of Israel.
1 Samuel 16:13 (NIV):
“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.”
This anointing was not just a ceremonial act; it signified that the Spirit of the Lord was upon the person, empowering them to fulfill their God-given role.
Similarly, priests were anointed to serve in the temple, symbolizing their consecration and the purity required for their service.
Exodus 28:41 (NIV):
“After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve me as priests.”
Anointing marked them as holy, set apart for the sacred duties they were to perform.
Anointing of Objects
Anointing was also used to consecrate objects, particularly those used in worship, such as the tabernacle and its furnishings.
Exodus 30:26-29 (NIV):
“Then use it to anoint the tent of meeting, the ark of the covenant law, the table and all its articles, the lampstand and its accessories, the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand. You shall consecrate them so they will be most holy, and whatever touches them will be holy.”
This practice underscored the idea that everything used in the service of God must be holy and dedicated to Him.
Anointing in the New Testament
In the New Testament, the concept of anointing takes on a more spiritual meaning, particularly in relation to the person of Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus as the Anointed One
The term “Christ” comes from the Greek word “Christos,” which means “Anointed One.” This title emphasizes that Jesus is the one anointed by God to fulfill the messianic prophecies and to bring salvation to humanity.
Luke 4:18 (NIV):
“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…”
In this passage, Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah, identifying Himself as the one anointed by the Spirit to carry out God’s redemptive mission. His anointing signifies His divine authority and the presence of the Holy Spirit in His ministry.
Spiritual Anointing of Believers
In the New Testament, the anointing also extends to believers, symbolizing the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This spiritual anointing empowers believers to live out their faith and to carry out the work of God.
1 John 2:20 (NIV):
“But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.”
This verse suggests that all believers have received an anointing from God, equipping them with spiritual discernment and the ability to understand and apply God’s truth.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (NIV):
“Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”
Paul’s words affirm that believers are anointed by God, marked as His own, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who serves as a guarantee of their future inheritance in Christ.
The Symbolism and Significance of Anointing
Consecration and Holiness
Anointing symbolizes consecration, the setting apart of someone or something for a sacred purpose. This consecration is associated with holiness, signifying that the anointed person or object is dedicated to God and His service.
Empowerment and Authority
Anointing also represents empowerment and the bestowal of divine authority. Those who were anointed, such as kings and priests, were given the authority to lead, serve, and carry out God’s will. This concept carries over into the New Testament, where believers are spiritually anointed by the Holy Spirit, empowered to live out their faith and witness to the world.
Healing and Restoration
In addition to consecration and empowerment, anointing is also associated with healing. In the New Testament, anointing with oil is connected to the practice of praying for the sick, symbolizing the healing power of God.
James 5:14-15 (NIV):
“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. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”
Here, anointing with oil is a tangible expression of faith in God’s ability to heal and restore, both physically and spiritually.
Practical Applications of Anointing Today
Anointing in Worship and Prayer
In contemporary Christian practice, anointing with oil is often used in worship and prayer as a symbolic act of consecration, healing, and blessing. This practice serves as a reminder of God’s presence and the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.
Recognizing Spiritual Anointing
Believers are encouraged to recognize and embrace the spiritual anointing they have received through the Holy Spirit. This anointing equips them to live out their faith with boldness and to fulfill the specific callings God has placed on their lives.
Living a Life Set Apart for God
The concept of anointing also calls believers to live lives that are set apart for God. Just as those anointed in the Bible were consecrated for holy purposes, so too are believers called to live in a way that reflects their dedication to God and His kingdom.
Romans 12:1 (NIV):
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Living a life that is “anointed” involves daily surrender to God’s will and a commitment to walking in His ways.
Conclusion
Anointing is a rich and multifaceted concept in the Bible, encompassing physical acts of consecration, spiritual empowerment, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Whether through the anointing of kings and priests in the Old Testament or the spiritual anointing of believers in the New Testament, the act of anointing signifies God’s blessing, authority, and purpose. For Christians today, anointing serves as a reminder of their calling to live lives that are consecrated to God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and marked by a deep commitment to His service.