ἐγχρίω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word enchríō, represented by G1472, means to rub in (oil), i.e. besmear:--anoint. Derived from the words ἐν and χρίω, its definition emphasizes the act of rubbing something in. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible, making its sole usage highly significant.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single biblical appearance of G1472 is in Revelation 3:18. In this verse, Jesus counsels the church of the Laodiceans, which has become spiritually lukewarm and blind. He urges them to acquire several things from Him to remedy their condition: "gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich," "white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed," and finally, to anoint their eyes with eyesalve. The specific purpose of this anointing is clearly stated: "that thou mayest see," directly addressing their spiritual blindness.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of G1472 is directly linked to one key term:

• G2854 kolloúrion: Defined as "properly, a poultice (as made of or in the form of crackers), i.e. (by analogy) a plaster:-- eyesalve." This is the substance to be applied. Its appearance in Revelation 3:18 shows that the act of anointing G1472 is inseparable from the divine remedy being offered.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G1472 is concentrated in its single, powerful application.

• Remedy for Spiritual Blindness: The primary significance of the word is its role as the action required to cure spiritual blindness. The counsel to "anoint thine eyes" is a direct command to apply the cure so "that thou mayest see" Revelation 3:18.
• Required Action: It is not a passive reception of sight but an active step of obedience. The instruction to "anoint" implies that the believer must personally apply the spiritual remedy provided by Christ.
• Divine Source of Healing: This anointing is part of a list of items to be bought "of me," indicating that the ability to see spiritually comes exclusively from Christ and the remedies He provides.

Summary

In summary, while extremely rare, G1472 enchríō carries a focused and vital meaning. Its lone use in scripture presents a powerful metaphor for spiritual healing. It defines the act of applying the divine "eyesalve" offered by Christ as the necessary step to overcome the spiritual blindness that can afflict believers. The word underscores a theology of active participation in one's own spiritual restoration through the remedies that originate solely from God.