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.
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.
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.
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.
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