Symbolism of "laying hands" today?
What does the "laying their hands" symbolize, and how can we practice this today?

Setting of the Passage

“When they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.” (Acts 6:6)


What Laying on of Hands Meant in Scripture

• Identification

• Old Covenant priests placed hands on the sin-bearer (Leviticus 16:21), showing the people’s guilt transferred to the sacrifice.

• Impartation of Authority

• Moses laid hands on Joshua (Numbers 27:18-23; Deuteronomy 34:9), publicly recognizing God’s call and conferring leadership.

• Blessing

• Jesus “placed His hands on them and blessed them” (Mark 10:16).

• Healing

• “They will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well” (Mark 16:18).

• Reception of the Holy Spirit & Spiritual Gifts

Acts 8:17; 19:6; 1 Timothy 4:14.

• Commissioning for Ministry

Acts 6:6; 13:3—prayer, fasting, laying on hands, sending workers.


Why God Uses This Symbol

• Physical contact underscores unity in the body of Christ.

• It testifies that any power or blessing comes from God, not from the individuals.

• It visibly links words (prayer, prophecy) with action, making an intangible grace tangible.

• It guards order: only recognized, faithful believers should commission or endorse others (1 Timothy 5:22).


Practicing Laying on of Hands Today

• Commissioning & Ordination

• When a church appoints elders, missionaries, or ministry leaders, the existing leadership prays and lays hands on them, just as the apostles did (Acts 13:3).

• Praying for the Sick

• Believers may gently place a hand on the shoulder or head of the ill person while praying for healing, trusting God’s promise (James 5:14-16; Mark 16:18).

• Blessing Children or New Believers

• Parents, grandparents, or church leaders may lay hands on children or those freshly baptized, speaking Scripture-based blessings (Mark 10:16).

• Seeking the Spirit’s Empowerment

• Mature believers pray for others to be filled with the Holy Spirit, laying hands as the apostles did (Acts 8:17; 19:6).


Practical Guidelines

• Always combine the gesture with clear, biblical prayer; the act alone has no power.

• Maintain propriety—ask permission, respect personal boundaries, and involve trusted witnesses.

• Use in accordance with church leadership and doctrine; avoid hasty endorsement (1 Timothy 5:22).

• Remember the purpose: to glorify Christ, edify the body, and serve others in love.


Takeaway

Laying on of hands is a God-given sign of identification, blessing, impartation, and commissioning. Practiced biblically, it remains a vital, tangible expression of faith, unity, and dependence on the Holy Spirit in the church today.

How can we apply the principles of consecration from Leviticus 8:22 in daily life?
Top of Page
Top of Page