The concept of "The Anointed King" is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, symbolizing God's chosen leader for His people. The term "anointed" comes from the Hebrew word "mashiach," which means "Messiah" or "anointed one." In the Old Testament, anointing was a sacred act performed by prophets or priests, signifying God's selection and empowerment of an individual for a specific role or mission.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the anointing of kings was a significant event, marking the divine appointment of a leader. The first king of Israel, Saul, was anointed by the prophet Samuel. In 1 Samuel 10:1 , it is recorded: "Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'" This act of anointing was not merely ceremonial but indicated that the king was to rule under God's authority and guidance.

David, the second king of Israel, is perhaps the most notable example of an anointed king. His anointing is described 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." David's anointing was a pivotal moment, as it established his legitimacy as king and foreshadowed the coming of the ultimate Anointed One, the Messiah.

The Anointed King as a Messianic Figure

The concept of the Anointed King extends beyond the historical kings of Israel to the prophetic anticipation of a future Messiah. The Old Testament contains numerous prophecies concerning a coming king who would establish an everlasting kingdom. Isaiah 9:6-7 speaks of this future ruler: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from that time and forevermore."

The Psalms also reflect this messianic expectation. Psalm 2:2 declares, "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One." This passage is often interpreted as a reference to the Messiah, the ultimate Anointed King who would fulfill God's redemptive plan.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Anointed King. The title "Christ" is derived from the Greek word "Christos," meaning "Anointed One," directly linking Jesus to the messianic expectations of the Hebrew Scriptures. In Luke 4:18-19 , Jesus Himself declares His anointed mission: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."

The New Testament writers consistently affirm Jesus as the Anointed King. In Acts 2:36 , Peter proclaims, "Therefore let all Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." This declaration underscores the belief that Jesus is the divinely appointed ruler, fulfilling the role of the Anointed King who reigns over God's kingdom.

Theological Significance

The Anointed King represents God's sovereign choice and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. In the biblical narrative, the anointing of a king signifies divine approval and empowerment, setting the stage for the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. As the Anointed King, Jesus embodies the perfect union of divine authority and servant leadership, offering salvation and eternal life to all who believe in Him. The concept of the Anointed King thus serves as a central theme in understanding God's redemptive work throughout history and His ongoing reign through Christ.