What Does the Bible Say About Anointing?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

Anointing in the Bible holds deep spiritual significance. It was used for consecration, healing, and marking someone as chosen by God. Kings, prophets, and priests were anointed as a symbol of God’s appointment. In the New Testament, anointing takes on a broader meaning, representing the Holy Spirit’s presence and work in believers’ lives. Essentially, anointing in the Bible signifies being set apart for a special purpose or divine favor.

Curious about the ancient practice of anointing and its relevance today? Explore its rich symbolism and enduring significance in biblical tradition and Christian life.

What Does the Bible Say About Anointing?

Anointing is a practice steeped in symbolism and importance throughout the Bible. This sacred act, involving the smearing or pouring of oil, signifies various spiritual truths and realities.

In the Old Testament, anointing was a common practice for several reasons. Primarily, it was used for consecration – setting apart people or objects for God’s specific purposes. Kings, prophets, and priests were often anointed, symbolizing God’s choice and empowerment. For instance, David was anointed by Samuel, marking him as the chosen king of Israel. This physical act of anointing represented a spiritual reality – God’s hand and calling upon a person’s life.

But anointing wasn’t just for people. Objects used in worship, like the Tabernacle and its furnishings, were anointed, signifying their holy use.

Then there’s the aspect of healing. In some biblical accounts, anointing oil was used for medicinal purposes, reflecting God’s healing power. It also symbolized purification, an important aspect of approaching God.

Moving to the New Testament, the concept of anointing takes on a new dimension. Jesus is referred to as the “Anointed One,” signifying Him as the Messiah, chosen by God to save and redeem. The anointing here points to His divine mission and authority.

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Moreover, anointing in the New Testament symbolizes the Holy Spirit’s presence in a believer’s life. It’s about spiritual empowerment and guidance. For Christians, being anointed by the Holy Spirit means being equipped and strengthened for God’s purposes.

God’s view on anointing, as presented in the Bible, is that it’s more than a ritual. It’s a visible sign of His invisible work in and through individuals. Anointing marks a person as God’s vessel, chosen and equipped for divine tasks.

In summary, anointing in the Bible represents consecration, empowerment, healing, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. It’s a physical act with deep spiritual implications, highlighting God’s calling and favor on individuals and their dedicated roles.

Bible Verses About Anointing

The Bible references anointing numerous times, each with its own context and significance. Here are some key verses:

  1. 1 Samuel 16:13 – “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 verse illustrates the anointing of David as king, signifying God’s choice and empowerment.
  2. Exodus 30:25-30 – “Make these into a sacred anointing oil… Anoint the Tabernacle of the Meeting and the Ark of the Testimony.” Here, anointing is used to consecrate objects for worship, symbolizing their holy purpose.
  3. James 5:14 – “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.” This New Testament verse shows anointing as part of a healing practice, connected with prayer and faith.
  4. Luke 4:18 – “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.” Jesus speaks of His anointing, which equips Him for His messianic mission.
  5. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 – “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.” This passage links anointing with the Holy Spirit’s work in believers.
  6. Psalm 23:5 – “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” David uses the imagery of anointing to express God’s provision and blessing.
  7. 1 John 2:20 – “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.” This refers to the spiritual anointing believers have from God, granting insight and understanding.
  8. Psalm 45:7 – “You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” This verse highlights anointing as a symbol of joy and favor from God.
  9. Exodus 40:9 – “Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy.” This demonstrates the use of anointing in consecrating items for worship.
  10. Acts 10:38 – “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.” This verse summarizes Jesus’ anointing and its purpose in His earthly ministry.
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These verses provide a comprehensive view of the role and significance of anointing in the Bible. From the consecration of kings and priests in the Old Testament to the spiritual anointing of believers in the New Testament, anointing serves as a powerful symbol of God’s appointment, empowerment, and presence.

The biblical concept of anointing encompasses a range of meanings and applications. Whether it’s setting apart individuals for God’s service, symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s work in a believer’s life, or representing healing and consecration, anointing holds profound spiritual significance. It’s a reminder of God’s ability to equip and empower His people for the tasks He calls them to and a symbol of His ongoing presence and work in their lives.