Meaning

  What does it mean to anoint with oil? To begin, there are a handful of different words in the Hebrew (Old Testament language), and the Greek (New Testament language) that are rendered, anoint. However, each has a different meaning, and purpose. We will briefly break them down, then zero in on the word which comes to mind for most. We will see also if there is a difference between Old and New Testament when it comes to the anointing.
   Genesis 31:13 I am the God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, and where thou vowedst a vow unto Me…
     This is the first place in the Bible where the word, “anoint” is used. MASHCH (Strong’s Concordance number, 4886) is a primary root word, which means to rub with oil, i.e., to anoint. By implication it means to consecrate (dedicate, induct, or declare sacred). It is rendered “anoint,” or “paint.” In short, to anoint, smear, or consecrate. This particular verse illustrates the idea of anointing someone, or something as an act of consecration. However, the basic meaning of the word is simply to smear something on an object. Usually oil is involved, but it could be other substances, such as paint or dye.
     This particular Hebrew word is used approximately 70 times, and mostly used to indicate “anointing” in the sense of setting apart for an office or function. For example, Elisha was anointed to be a prophet (1 Kings 19:16). More typically, kings were anointed for their office. In addition, vessels used in worship in the tabernacle, and temple were consecrated for use by anointing them. Incidentally, the recipe for this “holy anointing oil” can be found in Exodus 30:22-25, which goes into detail.
     Briefly speaking, other words rendered as anoint actually carry different purposes than consecration. For instance, CUWK (Strong’s Concordance number, 5480) is always used of anointing the body, which was done after washing in the bath; thus differing from consecration. BALAL (Strong’s Concordance number, 1101) means to pour over, mix, pour together. It may also mean to stain, or soil, as well as to give provender (food) to animals.
     The practice of anointing is found throughout the Bible. Use of scented oils was a mark of luxury (see Amos 6:6), such as those Hezekiah kept in his treasure house. The use of ointment was also a sign of joy (see Proverbs 27:9). During a time of mourning, it would be discontinued; however, it would be brought back to use to signify the end of mourning. Moreover, the cessation of its use was a mark of God’s displeasure if Israel proved to be rebellious (see Deuteronomy 29:40; Micah 6:15). It’s restoration would be signify the return of God’s favor (see Isaiah 61:3). Likewise, anointing is used to symbolize prosperity (see Psalm 92:10; Ecclesiastes 9:8).
     Matthew 6:17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
     This is first place in New Testament Scripture we read the word anoint, which is ALEIPHO (Strong’s Concordance number, 218); to oil (with perfume): anoint. It means to rub, cover, besmear. It is a general term used for “an anointing” of any kind. It is used universally of either oil or ointment in actual anointings. It was used customarily at feasts in which oil was applied to the head as a symbol of joy. It was also applied to both head and feet of those whom was given special honor. In some cases, this rubbing was used for physical relaxation after washing. Anointing the entire body with oil was also a common practice for treating sick people. Likewise, they did the same for the dead.
     Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. . .
Interestingly, the root word for Christ (The Anointed One), or Messiah is this particular word for anoint(-ed). CHRIO (Strong’s Concordance number, 5548) means to daub, smear, rub with oil or ointment, or to rub oneself with oil. By implication, to consecrate to an office or religious service: -anoint. CHRIO is limited to sacred and symbolic anointings.
     Mark 14:3, 8 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on His head… She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint My body to the burying.
     MURIZŌ (Strong’s Concordance number, 3462) From G3463; to apply (perfumed) unguent (ointment or healing salve). To anoint for burial, or embalm.
     Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
     EGCHRIŌ (Strong’s Concordance number, 1472); to rub in (oil), that is, besmear: – anoint. This metaphorically speaks to the idea of anointing the eyes to beautify them, and bringing clarity.
     John 9:6 When He had thus spoken, He spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay (read John (9:1-41 for full story).
EPICHRIŌ (Strong’s Concordance number, 2025); From G1909 and G5548; to smear over: – anoint. To rub upon. This indicates the manner in which the anointing was done.
     For the most part, the oil referred to throughout the Bible is olive oil. In part two, we delve into its meaning and characteristics. Then we’ll address the difference between Old and New Testament anointing. We’ll address questions about whether anointing buildings (churches, homes, etc.) is a New Testament principle. Here’s a question that will be addressed as well: is it necessary to anoint someone with oil in order for him to be healed? Are there any examples? What about anointing someone with oil for his or her consecration to an office, position or task? Perhaps, see what you can find.

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