Topical Encyclopedia The practice of the laying of hands is a significant and multifaceted ritual found throughout the Bible, serving various purposes such as blessing, healing, ordination, and the impartation of the Holy Spirit. This act symbolizes the transmission of authority, blessing, or spiritual power and is deeply rooted in both Old and New Testament traditions.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the laying of hands is often associated with the conferring of blessings and the transfer of guilt or responsibility. One of the earliest instances is found in Genesis 48:14, where Jacob lays his hands on the heads of Ephraim and Manasseh to bless them: "But Israel stretched out his right hand and put it on the head of Ephraim, though he was the younger, and crossing his arms, he put his left hand on Manasseh’s head, although Manasseh was the firstborn." The ritual is also evident in the sacrificial system, where the laying of hands on the sacrificial animal symbolized the transfer of sin from the individual to the animal. Leviticus 16:21 describes this practice: "He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the iniquities and rebellious acts of the Israelites. In this way, he will place them on the goat’s head and send it away into the wilderness by the hand of a man appointed for the task." New Testament Context In the New Testament, the laying of hands takes on additional dimensions, particularly in the context of healing, the impartation of the Holy Spirit, and ordination. Jesus Himself practiced the laying of hands for healing, as seen in Mark 6:5: "So He could not perform any miracles there, except to lay His hands on a few of the sick and heal them." The Apostles continued this practice, notably in the early church. Acts 8:17 describes the impartation of the Holy Spirit through the laying of hands: "Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit." This act signified the reception of spiritual gifts and empowerment for ministry. The laying of hands is also associated with ordination and the setting apart of individuals for specific roles within the church. In Acts 13:3, the church at Antioch lays hands on Barnabas and Saul before sending them off on their missionary journey: "So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off." Theological Significance Theologically, the laying of hands represents a tangible expression of spiritual truths. It signifies the unity of the body of Christ, the transmission of spiritual authority, and the blessing of God upon individuals. The practice underscores the belief in the power of God working through His people to accomplish His purposes. Practical Application In contemporary Christian practice, the laying of hands continues to be an important ritual in various denominations, particularly in contexts such as ordination, healing services, and prayer meetings. It serves as a reminder of the continuity of biblical traditions and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church. Topical Bible Verses Mark 16:18They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Topicalbible.org Hebrews 6:2 Acts 8:17 Greek 1936. epithesis -- a laying on, an assault ... [1 Tim 4:14 shows how the "laying on of hands" helps spur people to receive God's . These endowments bring great fruitfulness to the Lord's Church. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1936.htm - 7k 4244. presbuterion -- a body of elders Library Ordination and Duties of the Clergy. Christ and Little Children A Woman Shall not Receive the Laying on of Hands as a Deaconess ... Presbyters and Deacons Convicted of the Graver Crimes Shall not ... Claiming. Men as Trees The Value of Life As He is Going to Reply to the Slanders of his Opponents He ... The End of Paul's Long Journey Acts VIII Resources What is the G12 vision / movement? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean when Jesus says, “my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30)? | GotQuestions.org When is it right to criticize my pastor? | GotQuestions.org Laying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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