What is the fundamental ritual act of anointing?

Anointing is the ritual act of pouring aromatic oil over a person's head or entire body.

Beyond aromatic oil, what other substances can be used in anointing rituals?

By extension, the term anointing also applies to the use of perfumed oil, milk, butter, or other fats, applied through sprinkling, dousing, or smearing a person or object.

What were the historical purposes attributed to the practice of anointing?

Historically, anointing served as a form of medicine, was used to introduce a divine influence or presence, and was also practiced as an act of hospitality.

What is the typical modern usage of the term 'anointing'?

In present usage, 'anointing' is most commonly associated with ceremonial blessings, such as the coronation of European monarchs.

What religious concepts are linked to the term 'anointed'?

The concept of being 'anointed' is significant in Abrahamic religions, particularly in relation to the figures of the Messiah or Christ, meaning 'The Anointed One'.

What is another term for anointing, especially when referring to the sick?

Anointing, particularly the anointing of the sick, may also be known as unction; the anointing of the dying as part of last rites in the Catholic Church is sometimes specified as 'extreme unction'.

What is the etymological origin of the English word 'anoint'?

The modern verb 'anoint' derives from the obsolete adjective 'anointed,' which comes from the Old French verb *enoint*, meaning to anoint, itself originating from the Latin *inungere*, an intensified form of *ungere* (to anoint).

What does the Greek term *khrisma* signify in relation to anointing?

The Greek term *khrisma* means 'anointing' and is the root of the word 'chrism,' referring to the perfumed oil used in sacred rites.

What are the three primary purposes attributed to the practice of anointing?

Anointing is recognized for three distinct purposes: as a means of health and comfort, as a token of honor, and as a symbol of consecration.

How was anointing believed to benefit health in ancient times?

Anointing with oil was thought to close skin pores, counteract the sun's influence, reduce sweating, and mask offensive odors with aromatic oils, serving as a health practice.

What role did anointing play in traditional medicine and combating illness?

Oils and fats were used as traditional medicines, with the Bible noting olive oil applied to the sick and into wounds. Anointing was also believed to counteract demonic influences thought to cause disease.

What is the significance of anointing the dead?

The dead are sometimes anointed for sanitary and religious reasons. In medieval and early modern Christianity, this practice was specifically linked to protection against supernatural beings like vampires and ghouls.

How was anointing used as a gesture of hospitality?

Anointing guests with oil was a recognized mark of hospitality and honor in ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and among the Hebrews, a custom that persisted among Arabs into the 20th century.

What is the connection between anointing and sympathetic magic in primitive religions?

In primitive religions, the fat of sacrificial animals and persons was considered a powerful charm, and anointing oneself with it was believed to impart courage or the powers of a victim.

What was the scholarly debate regarding the anointing of officials in ancient Egypt?

While early 20th-century scholars believed Egyptian officials were anointed upon installation, Stephen Thompson and others found no evidence, suggesting instances might reflect Asiatic customs rather than indigenous Egyptian practices.

What was a well-attested practice related to anointing in ancient Egypt?

Anointment of the corpse with scented oils was a well-attested practice and an integral part of the mummification process in ancient Egypt.

What are the modern anointing practices in Indian religions like Hinduism and Jainism?

In modern Hinduism and Jainism, anointing typically uses substances like water, yogurt, milk, or butter, often from cows, rather than oil. These rituals serve as acts of consecration or blessing at various life stages and for ritual objects.

How do Buddhist anointing practices differ from those in India?

Buddhist anointing practices are generally less elaborate and more ritualized than Indian traditions, often involving the sprinkling of water or marking idols with butter or scented water.

What was the significance of holy anointing oil in ancient Judaism?

In ancient Judaism, holy anointing oil was crucial for the consecration of priests, the High Priest, sacred vessels, prophets, and kings, symbolizing the impartation of the 'Spirit of the Lord'.

What biblical figures were anointed by Samuel?

The prophet Samuel anointed Aaron as high priest, and also anointed Saul and David as kings.

What is the Hebrew term for 'The Anointed One,' and what concept does it relate to?

The Hebrew term *Mashiaḥ* translates to 'The Anointed One' and is the origin of the title 'Messiah'.

How did the practice of anointing a shield relate to the concept of a Messiah?

The practice of anointing a shield to maintain its suppleness contributed to the idea of a 'chosen one' and the concept of a Messiah, as it symbolized protection and selection, mirroring the victorious soldier elevated on his shield.

How is Jesus of Nazareth associated with the concept of anointing in Christianity?

Christianity's connection to the concept of an 'Anointed One' stems from Jesus of Nazareth, whose title 'Christ' is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew term for 'The Anointed One'.

How was Jesus considered to have been anointed by the Holy Spirit?

According to Christian belief, Jesus was considered to have been anointed by the Holy Spirit during his baptism, rather than through a formal ceremony performed by a human high priest.

What is 'chrismation' in the context of early Christianity?

Chrismation, or baptism with oil, emerged in the early Christian church as a symbolic act representing Christ, rebirth, and divine inspiration, with early figures like Theophilus of Antioch linking the term 'Christian' to this practice.

What are the three types of holy oils blessed in Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran traditions?

These traditions bless the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Infirm, and Sacred Chrism.

What is the purpose of the Oil of the Infirm?

The Oil of the Infirm is utilized in the sacrament of anointing of the sick, a practice historically known as Extreme Unction in Western Christianity.

What is the essential part of the sacrament of confirmation in Latin Catholicism?

The essential component of the sacrament of confirmation in Latin Catholicism is the anointing with Sacred Chrism.

What is confirmation called in the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic churches?

In the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic churches, confirmation is known as chrismation.

What is the sacred substance used in Eastern Orthodox chrismation, and how is its apostolic blessing maintained?

The sacred substance is *myron* (chrism), believed to contain oil blessed by the Twelve Apostles. Its apostolic blessing is maintained by never completely emptying the container, which is refilled as needed.

How is the *myron* used in the chrismation ceremony in Eastern Orthodoxy?

During chrismation, the *myron* is applied to make the sign of the cross on specific parts of the body, including the forehead, eyes, nostrils, lips, ears, breast, hands, and feet.

What is the practice of anointing the sick called in Orthodox churches?

In Orthodox churches, the anointing of the sick is referred to as the 'Sacred Mystery of Unction'.

Which Protestant denominations might continue to use anointing, and for what purposes?

Pentecostal churches, in particular, sometimes continue to use anointing for the consecration and ordination of pastors and elders, as well as for the healing of the sick.

How do members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints practice anointing?

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints practice anointing with pure, consecrated olive oil as a priesthood ordinance before blessings and as part of the endowment ritual alongside washing.

What was the historical significance of anointing in Christian coronation rites, particularly in Europe?

Anointing has been a significant ritual in Christian coronation rites across Europe, symbolizing divine sanction and serving to elevate the monarch's status.

What is the legend of the Holy Ampulla in French royal tradition?

The legend of the Holy Ampulla in French royal tradition states that a vial of oil descended from Heaven to anoint Clovis I, the first king of the Franks to convert to Christianity.

What did Tancredus state about the practice of anointing kings in the medieval period?

Tancredus noted that initially, only the kings of Jerusalem, France, England, and Sicily were crowned and anointed, and this practice was considered a privilege by ancient custom.

What was the perceived effect of sacral anointing on monarchs?

The sacral anointing of kings was viewed as elevating the monarch to a priestly or saintly status, and it was used by rulers to legitimize their authority, sometimes leading to conflicts with the church over claims of power.

What did Shakespeare's *Richard II* suggest about the significance of a king's anointing?

Shakespeare's play *Richard II* suggests that the anointing of a king confers an indelible status, famously stating that no amount of water can remove the 'balm' from an anointed king, emphasizing the sacred and permanent nature of the ritual.

Which monarchs are still anointed in modern times?

Royal unction is still practiced today for the monarchs of Britain and Tonga.

What is the significance of anointing a monarch in Eastern Orthodoxy?

In Eastern Orthodoxy, the anointing of a new king is considered a Sacred Mystery that bestows grace from the Holy Spirit, empowering the monarch to fulfill their divinely appointed duties, particularly in defending the faith.

What was the purpose of the Oil of Catechumens?

The Oil of Catechumens is applied to individuals immediately before baptism, historically serving to expel evil spirits during the catechumenate, a period of instruction for converts.

What specific practice related to anointing is mentioned in the Bible concerning the sick?

The Bible records the practice of applying olive oil to the sick and pouring it into wounds.

What is the meaning of the term 'unction'?

'Unction' is another term for anointing, particularly when referring to the anointing of the sick or the dying as part of last rites.

What was the belief about anointing and demons in ancient Persia, Armenia, and Greece?

In these regions, anointing was used to combat the malicious influence of demons, which were believed to cause disease.

What is the significance of the anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany?

Mary of Bethany lavishly oiled Jesus as an act of affection, which Jesus stated was preparation for his burial.

What does the Pentecostal phrase 'the anointing breaks the yoke' refer to?

This phrase refers to the power given by the Holy Spirit, drawing from a passage in Isaiah discussing the prophet Hezekiah's victory over Sennacherib.

What was the early scholarly view on the anointing of officials in ancient Egypt?

Early 20th-century scholars like Wilhelm Spiegelberg and H. Bonnet believed that officials in ancient Egypt were anointed as part of a ceremony installing them into office.

How did the anointing of Charles I of England differ in its oil composition?

For Charles I's coronation in 1626, the holy oil was a concoction that included orange, jasmine, distilled roses, distilled cinnamon, and ben oil, rather than a simple olive oil.

Anointing Wiki: The Sacred Unction: Rituals of Anointing Through Time

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What is Anointing?

Ritual Application

Anointing is the ritualistic act of pouring aromatic oil upon a person's head or entire body. This practice extends to the smearing, dousing, or sprinkling of individuals or objects with perfumed oils, milk, butter, or other fats.

Etymological Roots

The term "anointing" originates from the obsolete adjective "anoint," derived from Old French enoint, the past participle of enoindre, which itself comes from the Latin inungere, an intensified form of ungere, meaning "to anoint." This root is shared with the word "unction." The oil used in ceremonial anointment may be referred to as "chrism," from the Greek word khrisma, meaning "anointing."

Multifaceted Purposes

Historically, anointing has served three primary purposes:

Health and Comfort: Used in conjunction with bathing, oils were believed to close pores, reduce sweating, and mask odors. They also served as traditional medicines, with biblical accounts detailing the use of olive oil for the sick and wounded.
Token of Honor: Sharing scented oils was an act of hospitality, particularly noted in ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and among the Hebrews.
Symbol of Consecration: Anointing introduced a divine influence or presence, serving as a means to ward off disease-causing spirits and demons, and to imbue objects and individuals with sacredness.

The Significance of Purpose

Health and Protection

Beyond cosmetic uses, anointing with oils was deeply intertwined with health practices. Ancient cultures believed oils could protect the body from environmental influences like the sun and regulate bodily functions. In religious contexts, anointing was also seen as a spiritual defense, believed to repel malicious influences and demonic entities thought to cause illness. The practice of anointing the dead also served sanitary and ritualistic purposes, sometimes intended to protect the corpse from supernatural harm.

Hospitality and Esteem

Across various ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, Rome, and among the Hebrew people, the act of anointing guests with oil was a customary gesture of hospitality and a mark of honor. This practice persisted in some cultures, such as among the Arabs, well into the 20th century, signifying respect and welcome.

Spiritual Consecration

In many early and primitive religions, the fat of sacrificial animals or persons was considered a potent charm. Anointing with these substances was a form of sympathetic magic, intended to transfer qualities like courage or power. In religions like Christianity, oil itself is often consecrated in special ceremonies, signifying its role in imparting divine grace and marking individuals or objects as sacred.

Historical and Cultural Practices

Ancient Egypt

While scholarly debate exists regarding the anointing of officials as part of their installation in ancient Egypt, the practice of anointing corpses with scented oils was a well-established component of mummification rituals, aimed at preservation and ritual purity.

India and Buddhism

In Indian religions, late Vedic rituals evolved to include anointing officials, worshippers, and idols, known as abhisheka. Modern Hinduism and Jainism continue this practice, often using water, milk, or butter, particularly from the sacred cow, as well as scented substances like saffron and turmeric. Buddhist traditions adopted similar practices, often involving water or butter for ritual purification and consecration.

Anointing in Judaism

Sacred Oil and Divine Presence

In ancient Hebrew tradition, the use of a holy anointing oil was central to the consecration of priests, the High Priest, and sacred vessels. The oil, prepared according to divine instructions in the Book of Exodus, was believed to impart the "Spirit of the Lord." Prophets and Israelite kings were also anointed, with kings often anointed from a horn. This practice established a direct connection to divine authority and favor.

Kingship and the Messiah

The anointing of kings, such as Saul and David by the prophet Samuel, symbolized their divine appointment and legitimacy. This ritualistic selection elevated the ruler, sometimes associating them with a priestly status. The Hebrew term for "anointed one," Mashiah, directly gave rise to the concept of the Messiah, a prophesied savior figure central to Jewish theology and eschatology. The poetic phrase "anoint the shield" also reflects the practice of oiling leather shields for maintenance, linking to the idea of a chosen warrior and, by extension, a chosen leader.

Anointing in Christianity

Jesus and the Holy Spirit

Christianity's understanding of anointing is deeply rooted in Jesus of Nazareth, whose title "Christ" is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah" or "Anointed One." While not anointed by a human high priest, Jesus was considered anointed by the Holy Spirit during his baptism. The Gospels also recount instances of literal anointing, such as by Mary of Bethany, interpreted as preparation for his burial. The New Testament speaks of a spiritual anointing by the Holy Spirit, signifying divine presence and empowerment.

Sacraments and Rituals

In various Christian traditions, anointing with oil is integral to several sacraments. In Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, and Lutheranism, three types of holy oils are blessed: Oil of Catechumens (for preparation before baptism), Oil of the Infirm (for the anointing of the sick), and Sacred Chrism (for baptism, confirmation, holy orders, and the dedication of sacred spaces). Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic churches practice chrismation immediately after baptism, using sacred myron, believed to contain oil blessed by the Apostles, to seal the faithful with the Holy Spirit.

Gnostic and Protestant Views

Certain Gnostic texts suggest that anointment with oil is a necessary complement to baptism, essential for spiritual completion and receiving the Holy Spirit. Protestant denominations, particularly Pentecostal churches, continue to employ anointing for the consecration and ordination of clergy and for the healing of the sick, often referencing the biblical phrase "the anointing breaks the yoke" from Isaiah.

Royal Anointing and Sovereignty

Coronation Rites

Anointing has been a pivotal ritual in European coronation ceremonies for centuries, symbolizing divine sanction and the monarch's sacred authority. Historically, kings of Jerusalem, France, England, and Sicily were anointed. Legends, such as the Holy Ampulla used for French kings, underscore the belief that this ritual conferred heavenly grace. The practice elevated the monarch, often placing them in a quasi-priestly role and solidifying the Church's endorsement of their rule.

Symbolic Significance

The anointing ceremony, often mirroring Old Testament rites, was not merely ceremonial but imbued the ruler with spiritual authority. It was seen as a means for the monarch to discharge divinely appointed duties, particularly in defending the faith. The act could also reframe secular elections and acclamations as manifestations of God's will. Literary references, such as Shakespeare's portrayal in Richard II, highlight the perceived inviolability conferred by this sacred act.

Modern Practice

While less common today, royal anointing continues for monarchs in nations like Britain and Tonga. The specific oils and rituals may vary, but the underlying symbolism of divine appointment and sacred duty remains. The historical practice has profoundly shaped the relationship between church and state, influencing political and religious discourse for centuries.

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References

James Strong, The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville: T. Nelson, 1990) Heb. No. 4899 Gr. No. 5547.

Oxford English Dictionary, 1st ed. "anoint, v." Oxford University Press (Oxford), 1884.

Oxford English Dictionary, 1st ed. "â aËnoint, adj." Oxford University Press (Oxford), 1884.

Oxford English Dictionary, 1st ed. "chrism, n." Oxford University Press (Oxford), 1889.

Isaiah 1:6

Mark 6:13

James 5:14â15

Mark 14:8

Luke 23:56

2 Samuel 14:2

Psalms 104:15

Luke 7:38â46

1 W. Spiegelberg, "Die Symbolik des Salbens im A.gyptischen," Recueil de travaux relatifs... (RT) 28 (1906): 184-85

" E. Cothenet, "Onction," in L. Pirot, A. Robert, H. Cazelles, eds., Dictionnaire de la Bible, Suppld ment, vol. 6 (Paris, 1960

Exodus 29:7

Exodus 29:29

Leviticus 4:3

Exodus 30:26

1 Kings 19:16

1 Chronicles 16:22

Psalm 105:15

1 Samuel 16:13

Exodus 30:22â25

1 Sam 10:1

Leviticus 4:3â5

4:16

6:20

Psalm 132:10

Psalm 2:2

Daniel 7:13

Daniel 9:25â26

Isaiah 21:5

John 1:41

Acts 9:22

17:2â3

18:5

18:28

Isaiah 61:1

1 John 2:20

1 John 2:27

Theophilus of Antioch, "To Autolycus", 1.12.

Origen, "Commentary on Romans", 5.8.3.

Vatican Library MS Reginensis 316.

Ordination of Priests, 133

Isaiah 10:27

Tancredus, De Regibus Catholicorum et Christianorum 6:18 (https://books.google.com/books?id=CTVgAAAAcAAJ&pg=PA130)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Anointing Wikipedia page

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The Sacred Unction

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is Anointing? ℹ️

🏺 Ritual Application

📜 Etymological Roots

🎯 Multifaceted Purposes

The Significance of Purpose ⚖️

⚕️ Health and Protection

🤝 Hospitality and Esteem

🙏 Spiritual Consecration

Historical and Cultural Practices 🌍

🏛️ Ancient Egypt

🕉️ India and Buddhism

Anointing in Judaism ✡️

🔥 Sacred Oil and Divine Presence

👑 Kingship and the Messiah

Anointing in Christianity ✝️

🌟 Jesus and the Holy Spirit

⛪ Sacraments and Rituals

💡 Gnostic and Protestant Views

Royal Anointing and Sovereignty 👑

👑 Coronation Rites

📜 Symbolic Significance

🌍 Modern Practice

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Anointing?

Ritual Application

Etymological Roots

Multifaceted Purposes

The Significance of Purpose

Health and Protection

Hospitality and Esteem

Spiritual Consecration

Historical and Cultural Practices

Ancient Egypt

India and Buddhism

Anointing in Judaism

Sacred Oil and Divine Presence

Kingship and the Messiah

Anointing in Christianity

Jesus and the Holy Spirit

Sacraments and Rituals

Gnostic and Protestant Views

Royal Anointing and Sovereignty

Coronation Rites

Symbolic Significance

Modern Practice

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice