Topical Encyclopedia In biblical tradition, the anointing of the head holds significant spiritual and symbolic meaning, often associated with consecration, blessing, and the impartation of divine authority. The act of anointing the head with oil is a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures, signifying God's selection and empowerment of individuals for specific roles and purposes.Old Testament Context The practice of anointing the head is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where it is primarily associated with the consecration of priests, kings, and prophets. The anointing oil, a sacred mixture, was used to set apart individuals for God's service. In Exodus 29:7, God commands Moses regarding the consecration of Aaron and his sons: "You shall take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head." This act symbolized the sanctification and dedication of the priests to their holy duties. The anointing of kings is another prominent theme. In 1 Samuel 10:1, the prophet Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel: "Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'" Similarly, David is anointed by Samuel in 1 Samuel 16:13: "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward." Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Anointing the head with oil is rich in symbolism. It represents the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment, as seen in the anointing of David, where the Spirit of the Lord comes mightily upon him. The oil itself is a symbol of joy, healing, and the Holy Spirit, as reflected in Psalm 23:5: "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." The anointing also signifies God's favor and protection. Psalm 92:10 states, "But You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox; with fine oil I have been anointed." Here, the anointing is associated with strength and exaltation, indicating divine blessing and empowerment. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the concept of anointing finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Anointed One, or Messiah. The Greek word "Christos" means "anointed," underscoring Jesus' role as the divinely appointed Savior and King. In Luke 4:18, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor." Believers in Christ are also described as anointed. In 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, Paul writes, "Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us, placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come." This anointing signifies the believer's consecration and empowerment for service in God's kingdom. Cultural and Liturgical Practices Throughout church history, the anointing of the head has been incorporated into various liturgical practices, such as the anointing of the sick, ordination of clergy, and coronation of monarchs. These practices reflect the biblical tradition of using anointing as a means of invoking God's blessing and presence. In summary, the anointing of the head in the Bible is a profound act that signifies consecration, divine selection, and empowerment by the Holy Spirit. It is a testament to God's sovereign choice and the impartation of His grace and authority upon individuals for His purposes. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 14:18,29And the remnant of the oil that is in the priest's hand he shall pour on the head of him that is to be cleansed: and the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Greek 5548. chrio -- to anoint ... Anointing (literally) involved rubbing olive oil on the head, etc., especially to present someone as ... word Definition to anoint NASB Word Usage anointed (5). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5548.htm - 7k Library Why they who Come Forth from the Laver of Baptism are Anointed on ... Anointed for Burial. Chapter xii. Whether the Parts to be Anointed are Suitably Assigned? Anointed and Stablished Christ Anointed by Mary in Bethany. (John, xii. , 1, Seq. ) Jesus' Feet Anointed in the House of a Pharisee. To his Father, when He had Entrusted to Him the Care of the Church ... Letter xxxiii. (AD 396. ) Whether the Church Observes a Suitable Rite in Baptizing? Resources Are there beheadings recorded in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about wearing hats in church? | GotQuestions.org What is the Holy See? | GotQuestions.org Head: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Head in Grief: Sprinkled With Dust Head in Grief: The Hands Placed On Head of Criminals often Cut off Head of Enemies Slain in War, often Cut off Head of the Chief City of a Kingdom Head of the Leper Always Uncovered Head of Women Generally Covered in Public Head: (Anointed) of Joy and Prosperity Head: (Covered) of Defence and Protection Head: (Lifted Up) of Exaltation Head: (Lifted Up) of Joy and Confidence Head: (Made Bald) of Heavy Judgments Head: All the Other Members Necessary To Head: Bowed Down in Worshipping God Head: Bowed Down: As a Token of Respect Head: Derision Expressed by Shaking Head: Liable to Internal Disease Head: Nazarites Forbidden to Shave Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Crown Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Face Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Forehead Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Hair Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Scalp Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Skull Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Temples Head: Priests Forbidden to Shave Head: Put for the Whole Person Head: Shaven when Vows Were Taken Head: The Body Supported and Supplied By Head: The Jews Censured for Swearing By Head: The Uppermost and Chief Member of the Body Head: when Hoary With Age to be Respected Related Terms |
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