What was the purpose of Jesus being anointed?

Definition and Old Testament Background

Anointing in Scripture refers to the ritual act of pouring or smearing oil on someone (or something) to set them apart for a divine or sacred purpose. In the Old Testament, anointing commonly identified prophets (1 Kings 19:16), priests (Exodus 40:13–15), and kings (1 Samuel 10:1). This practice signified God’s blessing, empowerment, and appointment for a special office or task. In Hebrew, the word for “anointed one” is מָשִׁיחַ (Mashiach), which gets translated as “Messiah.” This concept foreshadows a promised Deliverer who would be specially chosen and empowered by Yahweh.

Symbolism of the Anointing

The act of anointing oil symbolized more than an official designation. It underscored God’s intimate involvement, presence, and authority in the life of the anointed individual. Oil in ancient Israel often represented abundance, consecration, and the Spirit of God. When a person was anointed, the primary meaning was that the Holy Spirit rested upon them for divine service (see 1 Samuel 16:13). This spiritual significance connected the physical act of being anointed with a deeper, God-ordained purpose.

Jesus, the Messiah: The Fulfillment of Anointing

Jesus is preeminently called “the Christ,” a Greek term (Χριστός) meaning “the Anointed One.” This title aligns perfectly with the Hebrew concept of “Messiah.” In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills all the Old Testament references to a future Anointed One who would bear the Spirit of the Lord in a unique way (see Isaiah 61:1). The Gospel of Luke records Jesus’ own reference to this prophecy:

“‘The Spirit of the Lord is on 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...’” (Luke 4:18).

By quoting Isaiah’s prophecy, He claimed that He was the anointed Servant, uniquely empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring the Kingdom of God.

The Gospel Accounts of Jesus’ Anointing

In the New Testament narratives, we see instances where Jesus is physically anointed, often with costly ointments or perfumes (e.g., Matthew 26:6–13, Mark 14:3–9, Luke 7:36–50, and John 12:1–8). These anointings had immediate and symbolic significance:

• Recognition of His identity: Certain individuals who anointed Jesus acknowledged who He was (the Messiah, the Son of God).

• Preparation for burial: One anointing foreshadowed His upcoming sacrificial death, as Jesus Himself indicated (John 12:7).

• Honor and worship: Those anointing Him frequently did so as an act of deep reverence and devotion, often at great personal cost.

Anointing by the Holy Spirit

Beyond physical anointing with oil or perfume, the New Testament reveals that Jesus’ most critical anointing came through the Holy Spirit. At His baptism, the Spirit descended on Him “like a dove” (Mark 1:10). This visible manifestation confirmed His identity as God’s chosen Servant and inaugurated His public ministry. Later, in Acts 10:38, Peter proclaims:

“...God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him.”

This scriptural testimony underscores Jesus’ divine commissioning to accomplish miracles, teach the truths of the Kingdom, and ultimately provide salvation through His death and resurrection.

Preparation for Burial

Shortly before His crucifixion, Jesus’ anointing by Mary of Bethany (John 12:1–8) is particularly significant. Jesus says in verse 7, “Leave her alone, she has kept this perfume in preparation for the day of My burial.” By using such a costly perfume, Mary showed profound devotion, but she also unknowingly participated in a symbolic act that highlighted the gravity of His coming sacrifice. This anointing figuratively pointed to the burial spices used in Jewish customs and foreshadowed His death and ultimate resurrection.

Christ as Prophet, Priest, and King

Old Testament anointing established three main offices: prophet, priest, and king. Jesus fulfills each of these:

1. Prophet – Declaring God’s Word and calling people to repentance (Luke 13:33, Acts 3:22).

2. Priest – Offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity (Hebrews 7:26–27).

3. King – Ruling and reigning over God’s people, with a Kingdom that shall never end (Luke 1:32–33).

Thus, through His anointing, Jesus is the perfect embodiment of these three roles foretold in the Old Testament.

Salvific Implications

The anointing of Jesus illuminates the central truth of salvation for all who believe. As the Anointed One, Jesus perfectly fulfills every requirement demanded by God’s holiness and justice. Through His sacrifice on the cross and triumph in the resurrection, He provides the only pathway to eternal life (John 14:6). The anointing points to His divine authority to lay down His life for sinners and to conquer death, ensuring believers’ resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20–22).

Archaeological and Cultural Insights

Archaeological findings in ancient Israel, including remnants of small stone and alabaster jars used to hold precious ointments, confirm the importance of anointing rites in first-century Judaea. Various manuscripts—such as some preserved among the Dead Sea Scrolls—contain messianic expectations pointing to a divinely ordained figure. Although these documents do not articulate the full picture of Jesus’ identity, they underscore the powerful cultural context in which His anointing would resonate as the Messiah.

Additionally, in historical records of first-century practices, anointing with oil was common to demonstrate hospitality (Luke 7:46) and honor. This further reveals how Jesus’ anointings served as culturally meaningful acknowledgments of His role and status.

Conclusion

The purpose of Jesus being anointed—whether by oil or by the Spirit—encompasses multiple dimensions: identification, consecration, empowerment, honor, preparation for sacrificial death, and the inauguration of His messianic mission. Each aspect of His anointing confirms Him as the prophesied Messiah who embodies the offices of prophet, priest, and king. This truth stands firmly in the historic and theological witness of Scripture:

• He is the fulfillment of Old Testament messianic promises.

• He is uniquely empowered by the Holy Spirit for ministry.

• He willingly offered Himself for humanity’s redemption.

• He rose from the dead, confirming His authority and eternal Kingship.

In every anointing event, Jesus’ divine calling was underscored and His destiny as the Savior of the world was proclaimed.