Topical Encyclopedia The imposition of hands, also known as the laying on of hands, is a significant biblical practice with deep spiritual and symbolic meanings. This act is seen throughout both the Old and New Testaments, serving various purposes such as blessing, consecration, healing, and the impartation of the Holy Spirit.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the laying on of hands is often associated with the transfer of blessing and authority. One of the earliest instances is found in Genesis 48:14, where Jacob (Israel) lays his hands on the heads of Ephraim and Manasseh, Joseph's sons, 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, even though Manasseh was the firstborn." The imposition of hands is also used in the context of sacrifices. In Leviticus 1:4, the individual offering a burnt offering is instructed to lay his hand on the head of the animal, symbolizing the transfer of sin and the identification of the offerer with the sacrifice: "He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering, so that it may be accepted on his behalf to make atonement for him." Furthermore, the laying on of hands is seen in the commissioning of leaders. In Numbers 27:18-23, Moses lays his hands on Joshua to commission him as his successor: "So the LORD said to Moses, 'Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.'" New Testament Context In the New Testament, the imposition of hands continues to hold significant spiritual importance. It is frequently associated with healing and the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself laid hands on the sick to heal them, 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 also practiced the laying on of hands for healing and the reception of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 8:17, Peter and John lay hands on the Samaritans who had believed in Jesus, and they receive the Holy Spirit: "Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit." The imposition of hands is also used in the context of ordination and commissioning for ministry. In Acts 13:3, the church at Antioch lays hands on Barnabas and Saul (Paul) to send them off for missionary work: "So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off." Theological Significance Theologically, the laying on of hands signifies the transmission of blessing, authority, and spiritual gifts. It is an outward, visible sign of an inward, spiritual grace. This practice underscores the communal and relational aspects of faith, as it often involves the participation of the faith community in recognizing and affirming God's work in an individual's life. The imposition of hands is a powerful reminder of the continuity of God's work through His people, from the patriarchs and prophets of the Old Testament to the apostles and the early church in the New Testament. It serves as a tangible expression of faith, obedience, and the movement of the Holy Spirit within the body of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Hebrews 6:2Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. Nave's Topical Index Library Whether the Imposition of the Priest's Hands is Necessary for this ... Of the Imposition of Hands. Types of the Deluge and the Dove. Concerning the Paulianists who have Flown for Refuge to the ... Epistle Lxvii. To Quiricus, Bishop, &C. Whether a Bishop Alone Confers the Sacrament of Order? Introduction Catechetical Instruction. Of Mavia, Queen of the Saracens, and the Ordination of Moses the ... Letter ccxvii. To Amphilochius, the Canons. The Bishops of Rome in those Times. Resources What does the Bible say about being left-handed? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does Jonah 4:11 mean by people who cannot tell their right hand from their left? | GotQuestions.org What is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.org Hand: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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