What Does the Bible Say about Anointing Yourself with Oil – Anointing with oil is an ancient practice found in many cultures and religions, including Christianity. The Bible speaks extensively about anointing with oil, particularly in the Old Testament. According to the Bible, anointing with oil was used to symbolize joy, healing, and consecration.
It was also used to signify the presence of the Lord and to set apart a person or thing as holy and belonging to God. In the New Testament, Jesus himself was anointed with oil as a sign of his kingship and authority. This article examines what the Bible has to say about anointing with oil and its significance.
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What Does the Bible Say about Anointing Yourself with Oil
Anointing oil is an integral part of Christianity, and it has long been used to symbolize spiritual guidance and healing. It is mentioned in the Bible in several places, and it is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. In this blog, we’ll discuss what the Bible says about anointing with oil, and explore its various uses and meanings throughout history.
- Exodus 30:22-25: In this passage, the Lord instructs Moses to make an anointing oil from myrrh, cinnamon, cane and cassia, which were to be used to anoint and consecrate the tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as Aaron and his sons as priests. This oil was used to set apart the tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as Aaron and his sons, as holy and consecrated to the Lord.
- Leviticus 8:10-12: In this passage, Moses anoints Aaron and his sons with the anointing oil, and then he sprinkles some of the oil on the altar seven times. This is an act of consecrating and dedicating the altar to the Lord.
- 1 Samuel 10:1: In this passage, the Lord instructs Samuel to anoint Saul as the first king of Israel. Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head and declared, “The Lord has anointed you ruler over his inheritance.”
- Psalm 45:7: In this passage, the psalmist refers to the anointing oil as a symbol of God’s favor and blessing. He says, “You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions.”
- 2 Corinthians 1:21: In this passage, Paul refers to the anointing oil as a symbol of God’s consecrating and commissioning of his apostles. He says, “Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”
- James 5:14-15: In this passage, James instructs the sick to call for the elders of the church to anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. This oil is a symbol of God’s healing and restoring power and is used to pray for the sick person’s healing.
Anointing Oil in the Bible: Types and Verses
Anointing oil is mentioned in the Bible in several places. In Exodus 30:22-25, we read of God instructing Moses to create a special anointing oil for use in the Tabernacle. This oil was composed of five ingredients: myrrh, cinnamon, cane, cassia, and olive oil. In Leviticus 8:10-12, we read of Moses anointing Aaron and his sons with this oil.
- Olive Oil – This is the most common oil used for anointing in the Bible, and it is especially associated with kings and priests. In Exodus 29:7, Moses is commanded to anoint Aaron and his sons with olive oil as part of their priestly consecration: “Then thou shalt take the anointing oil, and pour it upon his head, and anoint him.”
- Myrrh Oil – In Esther 2:12, Esther was instructed to be anointed with myrrh oil before appearing before the king. This type of oil was also used to anoint Jesus before his burial (John 19:39).
- Spikenard Oil – This type of oil was used to anoint Jesus’ feet in the house of Simon the leper (Mark 14:3). It was also used by Mary to anoint Jesus’ head prior to his crucifixion (John 12:3).
- Cassia Oil – This was one of the ingredients used to make the anointing oil for the Tabernacle, according to Exodus 30:24.
- Cedarwood Oil – This was also one of the ingredients used to make the anointing oil for the Tabernacle, according to Exodus 30:24.
- Cinnamon Oil – This was one of the ingredients used to make the anointing oil for the Tabernacle, according to Exodus 30:24.
- Frankincense Oil – This type of oil was used to anoint the Tabernacle, according to Exodus 30:34. It was also used to anoint Jesus in the New Testament (Luke 2:22).
- Cyprian Oil – This type of oil was used to anoint the high priest in the Old Testament (Exodus 30:30).
The Tabernacle and the Anointing Oil
The Tabernacle was a portable temple that the Israelites would carry with them as they traveled in the desert. It was the place where God’s presence was made manifest. This presence was symbolized by the anointing oil, which was used in religious rituals and ceremonies. The oil was used to anoint the Tabernacle and its furniture, as well as the priests and the kings.
Anointing oil was a sacred item used in the tabernacle of the Israelites in the Old Testament. It was used to ceremoniously consecrate individuals and objects as holy. This oil was composed of a variety of ingredients, including cinnamon, myrrh, and cassia, and was believed to possess special purifying and healing powers.
It was used to anoint the tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, the priests and the high priest, and other items that were to be consecrated and dedicated to God. The anointing oil was a symbol of the Holy Spirit and its presence was believed to bring God’s presence into the tabernacle.
Kings and Anointing Oil: Biblical Significance
The Bible mentions anointing oil in several passages when referring to the kings of Israel. In 1 Samuel 10:1, for example, we read of Samuel anointing Saul as king. In 1 Kings 1:39, we read of David anointing Solomon as king. Anointing oil was used to symbolize the blessing of divine authority and power bestowed upon these kings.
- Saul: Samuel anointed Saul with oil at his coronation as the first king of Israel in 1 Samuel 10:1. He was anointed with oil in order to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
- David: David was anointed by Samuel with oil as the second king of Israel in 1 Samuel 16:13. He was anointed with oil to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
- Solomon: Solomon was anointed as the third king of Israel in 1 Kings 1:39-40. He was anointed with oil to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
- Jehu: Jehu was anointed by Elisha with oil as the fourth king of Israel in 2 Kings 9:1-3. He was anointed with oil to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
- Joash: Joash was anointed by Jehoiada the priest with oil as the fifth king of Israel in 2 Kings 11:12. He was anointed with oil to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
- Uzziah: Uzziah was anointed by Zechariah the priest with oil as the sixth king of Israel in 2 Chronicles 26:20. He was anointed with oil to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
- Zerubbabel: Zerubbabel was anointed by Jeshua the high priest with oil as the seventh king of Israel in Haggai 2:23. He was anointed with oil to signify the Lord’s choice of him as the leader of Israel.
Olive Oil for Anointing: The Process
The Bible mentions olive oil as an ingredient in the anointing oil. This oil was extracted from olives by pressing them in a mortar and pestle, and then using it to anoint the Tabernacle, its furniture, and the priests and kings. The oil was also used to anoint the sick and afflicted, as a symbol of healing and divine grace.
8 Step Process
- Gather the necessary ingredients for the anointing oil. According to Exodus 30:23-25, the ingredients for anointing oil in the Bible are: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, 250 shekels of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia, and a hin of olive oil.
- Grind up the myrrh, cinnamon, and cane into a powder. This is done to facilitate the blending of the ingredients.
- Put the powder and the cassia into a mortar and grind them together. This is done to further blend the ingredients.
- Place the mixture in a mortar and add the olive oil.
- Place the mixture in a jar and seal it. This will prevent the oil from evaporating or spoiling.
- Let the oil sit for seven days, then strain it through a cloth. This will remove any impurities, such as debris or sediment.
- Pour the strained oil into a clean, dry jar and seal it. This will preserve the oil and keep it from spoiling.
- Once the oil has been prepared, it can be used for anointing or consecrating objects or people. It is important to remember that the oil should be used with respect and reverence.
Cooking with Oil: Benefits and Uses
Oil was also used for cooking in biblical times. It was used to fry foods, as well as to season and flavor them. Olive oil was believed to have several health benefits, including improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and helping to fight infections. It is still used in many Mediterranean dishes today.
Cooking oil and anointing oil in the Bible have different meanings and uses. Cooking oil is used for culinary purposes and is mentioned in the Bible in many passages, while anointing oil is used in religious ceremonies.
Cooking oil is mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 18:6 and Numbers 11:8. These passages discuss the preparation of food and the use of oil for cooking purposes. The type of oil used for cooking in the Bible is normally olive oil, although other types of oil may be used such as sesame oil and almond oil. Olive oil was often used in conjunction with milk, honey, flour and other ingredients to make cakes and breads.
Anointing oil is mentioned in the Bible in Exodus 30:22-25. This passage describes a specific recipe for anointing oil that was to be used for religious ceremonies. This oil was made from a mixture of myrrh, cinnamon, cane, and cassia, which were all spices and herbs. This oil was used to anoint priests and kings, and it was also used in other ceremonies.
The main difference between cooking oil and anointing oil in the Bible is their respective uses. Cooking oil was used for culinary purposes, while anointing oil was used for religious ceremonies. Both were important in Biblical times and are still used today in different ways.
Anointing Oil for Cosmetic Purposes: Historical Origin
Anointing oil was also used for cosmetic purposes in biblical times. It was used to soften and moisturize skin, and to help protect it from the sun’s rays. It was also believed to help reduce wrinkles and make skin look more youthful. Anointing oil is still used today for these same purposes.
Oils used for cosmetics in the Bible are mentioned several times, particularly in the books of Exodus and Leviticus. These oils were used for many purposes, such as anointing, perfuming, healing, and beautifying.
The most commonly mentioned oil in the Bible is olive oil. In Exodus 27:20, it is said that priests were to be anointed with pure olive oil. This oil was used to symbolize the presence of the Lord, and was seen as a sacred oil. In addition, olive oil was used to moisturize and soften the skin, as well as to nourish the hair.
Another popular oil mentioned in the Bible is almond oil. In Numbers 17:8, God commanded Aaron to take a rod from each of the twelve tribes, and to put almond oil on the tips of each rod. This was a sign of God’s favor over the tribes. Almond oil was also used for its healing and nourishing properties, as it contains numerous vitamins and minerals.
Other oils mentioned in the Bible include myrrh, cedarwood, frankincense, and cypress. These oils were used for their spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits. Myrrh was used to anoint priests and kings, while cedarwood was used as a purifying agent. Frankincense was used as a perfume and a healing agent, and cypress was used to soothe skin ailments.
The Bible also mentions other oils, such as cassia and saffron, which were used for their medicinal properties. These oils were used to treat various skin ailments, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Oils used for cosmetics in the Bible were used for many purposes. They were used to anoint, to perfume, to heal, and to beautify. In addition, they were seen as a sign of God’s favor, and were used for their spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits.
Shepherd, Anointing Oil and the Bible
The Bible also mentions anointing oil in relation to shepherds. The oil was used to anoint shepherds as a symbol of protection and faithfulness to their calling. In Psalm 23:5, we read of God’s anointing oil being “upon my head.” This passage speaks of the promises and protection of God to those who follow him.
In the Bible, shepherds anointed their sheep with oil as a sign of protection and blessing. This practice was mentioned several times in the Old Testament and was used to signify that God was watching over the flock.
The first recorded instance of this practice is found in Genesis 31:13, when Laban and Jacob agreed on a covenant for their shepherds, stating that if either of them removed the oil from the sheep, it would be considered a breach of the agreement. By anointing the sheep with oil, they were essentially setting apart their flock as a sign of their commitment to each other.
The practice was also mentioned in the book of Exodus, when Moses instructed the Israelites to anoint their sheep with oil in order to consecrate them for the upcoming Passover. This was done as a sign of their devotion to God, and to symbolize the blood of the lamb that was used as a sacrifice during the original Passover in Egypt.
The book of Leviticus also mentions the practice of anointing sheep, this time as part of a purification ritual. In this case, the priest would anoint the animal with oil and then sprinkle it with the blood of a sacrificed bird in order to purify it. The oil signified that God was protecting the animal, while the blood symbolized the removal of sins and impurities.
Finally, the book of Psalms mentions the practice of anointing sheep as a sign of God’s protection and blessing. In this case, the shepherd was commanded to anoint the sheep with oil and “pour out a drink offering” as a sign of his faithfulness and devotion to God.
Anointing Oil and Jesus: What the Bible Says
The Bible also mentions anointing oil in relation to Jesus. In Matthew 26:6-13, we read of Jesus being anointed with oil at the home of Simon the leper. This anointing was a sign of Jesus’s coming sacrificial death, and it symbolized his divine authority and power.
The anointing of Jesus is an event mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in Mark 14:3-9 and John 12:1-8. This event took place during the last week of Jesus’ life when He was in Bethany, a village near Jerusalem.
In Mark’s account of the event, Jesus is anointed by a woman who was said to have brought an alabaster jar of expensive perfume. She poured the perfume over Jesus’ head and feet. This act was seen as a sign of respect and devotion, since the perfume was very expensive. She then wiped his feet with her hair, showing great humility and reverence.
In John’s account of the event, Jesus is anointed by Mary, the sister of Lazarus. Mary’s anointing was seen as an act of worship and love for Jesus. She poured a jar of expensive perfume over Jesus’ head and anointed Him.
The anointing of Jesus is seen as a symbol of His role as the Messiah. It was a sign of respect and devotion, as well as a sign of the people’s faith in Jesus. It was also a sign of Jesus’ authority and kingship, as He was anointed as the King of kings.
In ancient times, the anointing of a king was a sign of God’s approval of that leader. This is why Jesus’ anointing was seen as a sign of His divine authority and mission. It was a sign that God had chosen Jesus to be the Messiah, and that Jesus had the authority to fulfill His mission. The anointing was also a sign that Jesus had the power to bring about the Kingdom of God on earth.
The anointing of Jesus is an important event in the Bible, as it symbolizes the authority, mission, and power of Jesus as the Messiah. It is a reminder of God’s love and devotion, and it is a sign of the people’s faith in Jesus.
The Anointing Oil and God: Its Significance
The anointing oil is a powerful symbol of God’s presence and grace. In the Bible, it is used to symbolize divine protection, healing, and blessing. It is also a reminder of God’s love and faithfulness to his people. The anointing oil is a reminder of God’s promises, and it is a source of hope and comfort for those who believe.
Anointing Oil in the New Testament
The use of anointing oil for the sick is an important practice in the New Testament. In the Bible, anointing oil is used for a variety of purposes, including healing the sick and casting out evil spirits. It is believed to be a symbol of God’s grace and mercy, and a sign of faith and devotion. In this blog, we will explore how the New Testament explains the use of anointing oil for the sick, why it is important, and what verses are relevant to this practice.
The New Testament explains that anointing oil is a symbol of God’s grace and mercy, and it is used to bring healing to the sick. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus commands his disciples to anoint the sick with oil and to pray for them. In James 5:14-15, it explains that anointing oil and prayer will bring healing to the sick. This is a powerful reminder that God can heal us if we turn to him in faith and ask for His help.
The New Testament also explains why anointing oil is important. In the Old Testament, anointing oil was used as a sign of consecration and dedication to God. It was also used to signify that someone was chosen by God for a special purpose. By anointing the sick with oil, we are acknowledging that God is the ultimate Healer and that He is the source of all healing. We are also expressing our faith and trust in God’s healing power.
Finally, there are a number of verses in the New Testament that are relevant to this practice. In Isaiah 61:1-3, it states that God will use anointing oil to bring healing to the sick. In Psalm 23:5, it says that God will anoint us with the oil of gladness. In Hebrews 1:9, it states that Jesus was anointed with the oil of gladness. In Matthew 10:8, it says that Jesus sent out his disciples to heal the sick with anointing oil. All of these verses demonstrate the importance of anointing oil for the sick in the New Testament.
Washing and preparing the Bodies of the Dead in the Bible
Steps
- Wash the body with water: According to the Bible, the first step to preparing a body for burial is to wash it with water. This act symbolizes cleansing the body of impurities and honoring the deceased. It is believed that this gesture bestows blessings on the deceased in their afterlife.
- Anoint the body with oil: After the body has been washed, it is then anointed with oil. This is an act of sanctification meant to prepare the deceased for their journey to the afterlife. The oil is often a mixture of aromatic oils such as myrrh and cinnamon.
- Wrap the body in a shroud: Once the body has been anointed with oil, it is then wrapped in a linen cloth or shroud. This act is meant to protect the body from any physical harm and also to honor the deceased by giving them a proper burial.
- Place the body in a tomb: After the body has been prepared for burial, it is then placed in a tomb or crypt. This is done to protect the body from scavengers and to give the deceased a place to rest until the resurrection.
- Pray for the deceased: During the burial process, it is customary to pray for the deceased. This prayer honors the deceased and is meant to bring peace and comfort to their soul in the afterlife.
Value of Anointing Oil: Uses in Ancient Times
Anointing oil was used in ancient times for a variety of purposes. It was used to anoint the Tabernacle and its furniture, as well as the priests and kings. It was also used to anoint the sick and afflicted, as a symbol of healing and divine grace. It was used in cooking, and it was also used for cosmetic purposes.
Anointing Oil Today: Its Uses and Benefits
Anointing oil is still used today for a variety of purposes. It is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals, and it is also used for healing and prayer. It is still used in cooking, and it is also used for cosmetic purposes. Olive oil is still believed to have several health benefits, and it is commonly used in Mediterranean dishes.
Anointing oil is an ancient tradition that has been used for centuries to symbolize spiritual consecration and blessing. In the Bible, anointing oil was used to consecrate kings, priests, and prophets of God. Today, many Christians still use anointing oil as a spiritual tool to bring God’s favor, guidance, and protection.
So, the answer to the question “Can You Buy Anointing Oil Today?” is yes. Anointing oil is still widely available in Christian bookstores, online, and even in some supermarkets.
Anointing oil is made by mixing a blend of essential oils, typically including myrrh, frankincense, and other herbs and spices. Different churches, denominations, and ministries have different recipes for their anointing oils, but all share the common goal of seeking God’s blessing and favor.
In the Bible, anointing oil was used to set apart kings and priests for special service to God. Today’s anointing oil is used in a similar way, with people praying over it and asking God to anoint them for His service. It’s also used to anoint homes, churches, and other places where people gather for worship.
Anointing oil can also be used to bring healing and comfort to those who are struggling with physical, emotional, or spiritual pain. According to Scripture, anointing oil is a symbol of our faith in the power of God to bring us healing and peace.
Finally, anointing oil can be used to draw us closer to our Creator. It is a tangible reminder of God’s presence, and it can be used as a tool to help us focus on God’s Word and presence in our lives.
So if you’re looking to bring God’s blessing, healing, and favor into your life, buying anointing oil is a great way to do it. Whether you’re using anointing oil to bless a home or to anoint yourself or someone else, it’s a powerful symbol of God’s presence and love.
Anointing Oil: Its Place in the Bible
Anointing oil is a powerful symbol in the Bible, and it is mentioned in several places. It is used to symbolize divine protection, healing, and blessing. It is a reminder of God’s love and faithfulness, and it is a source of hope and comfort for those who believe. Anointing oil is an integral part of Christianity, and it can help us to understand the love and grace of God.
Anointing Oil: Its Significance in Christianity
Anointing oil is an important part of Christianity, and it is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. It is a reminder of God’s love and faithfulness, and it is a source of hope and comfort for those who believe. Anointing oil is a powerful symbol of God’s presence and grace, and it can help us to understand the love and grace of God.
Anointing Oil: How it is Used in Worship
Anointing oil is often used in worship services and other religious ceremonies. It is used to symbolize the presence and blessing of God, and it is a reminder of his love and faithfulness. Anointing oil is a powerful symbol of God’s grace and protection, and it can help us to understand the love and grace of God.
Religions that Use Anointing Oil Today
- Christianity: Anointing oil is used in Christianity as a symbol of the Holy Spirit and as a sign of divine healing. The oil is typically made of olive oil and is often used in the Sacraments of Baptism and Anointing of the Sick. It is also used in blessings and prayers, and is often dabbed on objects or persons.
- Hinduism: Anointing oil is used in Hinduism to represent the sacred and divine energy of the gods. It is often used as part of rituals and ceremonies, such as in the consecration of idols, in order to bring about spiritual and physical healing.
- Judaism: Anointing oil is used in Judaism as a symbol of holiness and divine protection. It is often used in blessings, prayers and rituals, and is particularly associated with the Mezuzah.
- Sikhism: Anointing oil is used in Sikhism as a sign of divine protection and blessing. It is often used in the initiation of initiates into the Sikh faith, as well as in the recitation of prayers and rituals.
- Islam: Anointing oil is used in Islam as a symbol of purity and beauty. It is used as part of the ritual of wudu, as well as in the recitation of prayers and blessings.
- Buddhism: Anointing oil is used in Buddhism as a sign of respect and honor. It is often used in rituals such as the consecration of relics, as well as in the recitation of prayers and blessings.
Final Thoughts – What Does the Bible say about Anointing with Oil
Anointing oils has been used for many Purposes in the Bible
- Anointing Kings
- Anointing Sheep
- Anointing the Items in The Tabernacle
- Anointing the Sick
- Anointing Jesus
God Bless Greg
Best Bible Encyclopedias and Dictionaries
Below is a table featuring some highly regarded Bible Encyclopedias and Dictionaries along with their publishers and websites where they can be found or purchased.
| Title | Publisher | Website |
|---|---|---|
| The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia | Eerdmans | Eerdmans |
| Zondervan’s Pictorial Bible Dictionary | Zondervan | Zondervan |
| Easton’s Bible Dictionary | Thomas Nelson | Thomas Nelson |
| Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary | B&H Publishing Group | B&H Publishing Group |
| The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary | Moody Publishers | Moody Publishers |
| HarperCollins Bible Dictionary | HarperOne | HarperOne |
| Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words | Thomas Nelson | Thomas Nelson |
You can generally find these resources on the publishers’ websites, as well as other online book retailers such as Amazon or Christianbook. It’s always good practice to confirm availability and review additional details on the specific websites or other reliable online bookstores.
