### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aleíphō**, represented by `{{G218}}`, means to oil, often with perfume, and is translated as "anoint." It appears 10 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. This term refers to the literal act of applying oil or ointment, whether for hospitality, personal grooming, healing, or as an act of profound devotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G218}}` is frequently used to describe acts of reverence toward Jesus. Mary is noted for having anointed the Lord with costly ointment ([[John 11:2]], [[John 12:3]]). In a similar account, a woman anoints Jesus' feet with ointment, an act contrasted with the host who failed to anoint Jesus' head with oil as was customary ([[Luke 7:38]], [[Luke 7:46]]). The term is also used for a more practical purpose, as Jesus instructs his followers to "anoint" their heads when they fast, as part of normal grooming [[Matthew 6:17]]. After the crucifixion, women brought sweet spices to "anoint" Jesus' body [[Mark 16:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of anointing:
* `{{G1637}}` **élaion** (olive oil:--oil): This is the substance commonly used for anointing. The disciples "anointed with **oil** many that were sick" [[Mark 6:13]], and the elders of the church are instructed to anoint the sick with **oil** in the name of the Lord [[James 5:14]].
* `{{G3464}}` **mýron** (perfumed oil:--ointment): This term specifies a costly, perfumed oil used in acts of great reverence. Mary anoints Jesus' feet with a pound of very costly **ointment** [[John 12:3]], and the woman in Luke's account also uses **ointment** [[Luke 7:38]].
* `{{G2323}}` **therapeúō** (to relieve (of disease):--cure, heal, worship): This word is directly linked to the outcome of anointing. The disciples' act of anointing the sick resulted in them being **healed** [[Mark 6:13]], connecting the physical act with divine restoration.
* `{{G1591}}` **ekmássō** (to wipe dry:--wipe): This action is often performed alongside anointing in passages of devotion. Mary **wiped** Jesus' feet with her hair after anointing them ([[John 11:2]], [[John 12:3]]), and the woman in Simon's house also **wiped** his feet with her hair [[Luke 7:38]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G218}}` carries significant weight, highlighting several key themes.
* **Act of Devotion:** Anointing is portrayed as a profound expression of worship and love. The use of costly ointment to anoint Jesus' feet is a sacrificial act of reverence [[John 12:3]], contrasted pointedly with a simple lack of hospitality [[Luke 7:46]].
* **Ministry of Healing:** The practice is established as a conduit for healing. The disciples anointed the sick with oil [[Mark 6:13]], and James gives instruction for the elders of the church to do the same while praying in faith [[James 5:14]].
* **Personal Piety:** Anointing is also a feature of personal religious practice. Jesus' instruction to anoint one's head while fasting indicates that spiritual discipline should be conducted without ostentatious displays of suffering [[Matthew 6:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G218}}` describes the physical application of oil or ointment, but its biblical use is rich with meaning. It functions as an act of hospitality, a private expression of piety, a channel for God's healing power, and a profound gesture of sacrificial worship. The context determines whether the act is one of simple grooming, reverent care, or deep theological significance.
TRV