What is the meaning of being anointed?

Definition and Origin of Anointing

Anointing refers to the ceremonial act of pouring or smearing oil on a person or object, symbolizing consecration, sanctification, or divine empowerment. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, anointing was commonly observed in royal inaugurations, religious rituals, and even in daily practices involving scented oils. Scriptural references to anointing underscore the vital role it played among the Israelites and in the early Church. This practice signifies God’s blessing, spiritual authority, and setting apart for His purposes.

Anointing in the Old Testament

From the earliest biblical texts, anointing held great significance:

1. Consecration of Priests: Exodus 28:41 describes how Aaron and his sons were anointed to serve as priests: “After you clothe Aaron and his sons in these garments, you are to anoint and ordain them and consecrate them to serve as My priests.” This established the precedent that anointing conferred a sacred status, dedicating individuals to the service of God.

2. Selection of Kings: A notable example is found in 1 Samuel 16:13: “So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward.” Here, David was chosen and set apart as king, and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him in a special way when he was anointed. This account highlights the close connection between divine calling and anointing.

3. Anointing of Prophets: While prophets were not always anointed with oil in the same way kings or priests were, some passages indicate that God ordained prophets through His Spirit. In 1 Kings 19:16, Elijah is instructed to anoint Elisha, showing that anointing could mark prophetic commissioning.

Historical and Archaeological Context

Archaeological records from the ancient Near East provide insights into the cultural environment in which anointing took place. Clay tablets from Mesopotamia mention oils used in religious ceremonies, aligning with biblical accounts of holy ointments. These artifacts confirm that the act of anointing was a recognized practice across multiple regions.

Discoveries, such as certain ancient inscriptions referencing royal enthronement ceremonies, mirror the scriptural descriptions of anointing kings. These finds support the historical reliability of Old Testament narratives and affirm the biblical claim that anointing was regarded as a high honor, commissioned by God.

Spiritual Symbolism in the Old Testament

Beyond the physical act, anointing signified spiritual truths. Psalm 23:5 declares, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” This verse points to divine favor, protection, and abundant provision. Similarly, the sacrificial system in Exodus, coupled with the holy anointing oil in Exodus 30:22–30, illustrates that anointing was integrally connected with holiness and dedication to God.

Christ as the Anointed One

The term “Messiah” comes from the Hebrew word for “Anointed One,” and the title “Christ” has its roots in the Greek term “Christos,” which also means “Anointed One.” The New Testament emphasizes Jesus’s unique anointing:

1. Prophetic Fulfillment: At the synagogue in Nazareth, Jesus quotes Isaiah 61, asserting in Luke 4:18: “The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor…” This announcement underlines that He was specifically sent and anointed by God for His ministry.

2. Public Recognition: In John 1:41, Andrew tells Simon Peter, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated as Christ). This statement acknowledges Jesus as the long-awaited Anointed One who fulfills Old Testament prophecies.

3. Ultimate Purpose: Christ’s anointing ties directly to His redemptive work. Passages such as Mark 14:3–9 record the anointing of Jesus before His crucifixion, prophetically signifying His burial and sacrifice. His resurrection affirms both His identity and His eternal kingship.

Anointing in the Early Church

With the resurrection and ascension of Christ, the New Testament Church came to understand anointing primarily in spiritual terms:

1. Anointing by the Holy Spirit: Believers are said to receive an anointing from God Himself. In 2 Corinthians 1:21–22, it is written, “Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us, placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come.” This underlines God’s action in setting believers apart and empowering them through the indwelling Spirit.

2. Ongoing Empowerment: 1 John 2:27 reminds believers that “the anointing you received from Him remains in you,” underscoring that God’s presence through the Spirit provides continuous guidance and discernment.

Purpose and Effects of Anointing Today

In various Christian traditions, anointing continues in contexts such as ordination, ministry commissioning, or praying for the sick. James 5:14 says, “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.” While the symbol of oil remains, the core belief is that healing and empowerment come from God Himself.

Many personal testimonies, both historical and modern, recount moments of divine intervention after prayer and the laying on of hands with oil. These serve as anecdotes supporting the ongoing relevance of anointing in a believer’s life and point to God’s continued work in the world.

Practical Implications for Believers

Anointing offers:

1. Identification and Calling: Recognizing that an individual is set apart by God.

2. Spiritual Empowerment: Suggesting that God’s Spirit acts in and through believers to accomplish His purposes.

3. Consecration and Devotion: Encouraging faithful living and dedication to God’s will.

Conclusion

Being anointed in the Bible combines both a tangible act—often involving oil—and a profound spiritual reality. It signifies divine calling, equipping, and favor. From the consecration of priests and the crowning of kings in the Old Testament to the empowerment of believers through the Holy Spirit in the New Testament, anointing underscores God’s active presence and ongoing relationship with His people. The practice affirms that God Himself sets individuals apart for sacred purposes, and through His Spirit, He continues to guide, nurture, and work miracles in the lives of those who trust Him.