probably akin to χράομαι through the idea of contact; to smear or rub with oil, i.e. (by implication) to consecrate to an office or religious service:--anoint.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chríō**, represented by `{{G5548}}`, means to **anoint**. Its base definition is to smear or rub with oil, which by implication means to consecrate to an office or religious service. This specific term appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5548}}` is consistently used to describe a divine action of setting someone apart for a special purpose. God is shown as the one who **anoints** Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power [[Acts 10:38]]. This anointing commissions Jesus for His ministry, which includes preaching the gospel to the poor and healing the brokenhearted [[Luke 4:18]]. The act is not limited to Jesus; God is also the one who **anoints** believers, establishing them in Christ [[2 Corinthians 1:21]]. In one instance, the anointing is explicitly connected to a substance, the **oil** of gladness [[Hebrews 1:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the act of anointing:
* `{{G5547}}` **Christós** (anointed): This word is derived directly from **chríō** and is used as an epithet for Jesus, the Messiah. It signifies his status as the divinely Anointed One, as seen in the statement that God anoints believers in **Christ** [[2 Corinthians 1:21]].
* `{{G1637}}` **élaion** (olive oil): This is the physical substance often used in anointing. Its symbolic importance is highlighted when God is said to have anointed Jesus with the **oil** of gladness, setting him above his fellows [[Hebrews 1:9]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): The anointing is frequently associated with the empowerment of the **Spirit**. Jesus declares, "The **Spirit** of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me" [[Luke 4:18]], and He was anointed by God with the Holy **Ghost** and with power [[Acts 10:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5548}}` is significant and points to several core truths.
* **Divine Commissioning:** To be anointed by God is to be chosen and consecrated for a divine task. Jesus was **anointed** to preach the gospel and heal the brokenhearted [[Luke 4:18]], and was set apart as God's "holy child" [[Acts 4:27]].
* **Spiritual Empowerment:** The anointing is not merely ceremonial but is linked to a transfer of spiritual ability. It is an anointing with the Holy **Ghost** and with **power** `{{G1411}}` that enables the recipient to do good and heal [[Acts 10:38]].
* **Identification with Christ:** While Jesus is the primary Anointed One, the act is extended to believers. Paul states that **God** `{{G2316}}` is the one who "hath **anointed** us," thereby establishing believers in their relationship with **Christ** [[2 Corinthians 1:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5548}}` **chríō** is a potent term that signifies far more than the physical act of applying oil. It represents a divine act of consecration, empowerment, and commissioning. It is fundamental to understanding the identity of Jesus as the **Christós**, the Anointed One, and it also defines the believer's standing as one set apart and established by God for His purposes.
TRV