The term "The Anointed" is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, signifying individuals who have been consecrated by God for a specific purpose or mission. The concept of anointing is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing the setting apart and empowering of individuals by the Holy Spirit for divine service.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for "anointed" is "mashiach," from which the term "Messiah" is derived. Anointing was a common practice for priests, prophets, and kings, signifying their divine appointment and authority. For instance, Aaron and his sons were anointed as priests (Exodus 28:41), and Saul and David were anointed as kings over Israel (1 Samuel 10:1; 1 Samuel 16:13). The anointing oil, a mixture of olive oil and spices, was poured over the head, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment.

The anointing of David is particularly significant, as it establishes the Davidic line through which the ultimate Anointed One, the Messiah, would come. In 1 Samuel 16:13 , it is recorded, "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."

Messianic Prophecies

The Old Testament contains numerous prophecies concerning the coming of the Anointed One, the Messiah, who would deliver Israel and establish God's kingdom. Isaiah 61:1 prophesies, "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to the prisoners."

Psalm 2:2 also speaks of the Anointed One: "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One." This passage is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the Greek equivalent of "mashiach" is "Christos," from which the title "Christ" is derived. Jesus of Nazareth is identified as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Anointed One. At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor" (Luke 4:18). This declaration affirms His identity as the Messiah and His mission to bring salvation.

The anointing of Jesus is further confirmed at His baptism, where the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove, and a voice from heaven declares, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). This event marks the divine endorsement of Jesus as the Anointed One, empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill His redemptive work.

The Anointing of Believers

In the New Testament, the concept of anointing extends to all believers, who are considered anointed by the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 , "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 to God and empowerment for service in His kingdom.

The Apostle John also speaks of the anointing that believers receive from the Holy One, which teaches them and abides in them (1 John 2:20, 27). This anointing is understood as the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, guiding and equipping believers for their spiritual journey.

Conclusion

The concept of "The Anointed" is central to understanding the biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan. From the anointing of kings and prophets in the Old Testament to the fulfillment of the messianic promise in Jesus Christ, and the anointing of believers by the Holy Spirit, the theme of anointing underscores God's sovereign choice and empowerment for His purposes.