### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâshach**, represented by `{{H4886}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to rub with oil, i.e. to anoint; by implication, to consecrate; also to paint**. It appears **69 times** across **66 unique verses** in the Bible. This term signifies the act of anointing, which is used for consecrating individuals and objects for a special purpose, and is also used in a non-sacred context to mean painting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4886}}` is used for several key acts of consecration. It is central to the appointment of Israel's leaders, such as when Samuel was commanded to **anoint** Saul as captain over Israel [[1 Samuel 9:16]] and later when he **anointed** David as king [[1 Samuel 16:13]]. The term is also essential for establishing the priesthood, as seen in the command to **anoint** Aaron and his sons to sanctify them for service [[Exodus 28:41]]. Beyond people, sacred objects were also anointed to set them apart, including the tabernacle and its instruments [[Numbers 7:1]] and the altar of burnt offering [[Exodus 40:10]]. In a different context, the word is used literally to describe a house **painted** with vermilion [[Jeremiah 22:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of anointing:
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (oil): This is the substance used in the act of anointing. The Lord commanded Samuel to take a horn of **oil** and **anoint** David [[1 Samuel 16:13]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): A person holding the primary office conferred through anointing. The Lord says through Nathan to David, "I anointed thee **king** over Israel" [[2 Samuel 12:7]].
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash** (to be clean, consecrate, dedicate, hallow, be holy): This word describes the result of anointing. The priests were to be anointed in order to **sanctify** them for their office [[Exodus 28:41]].
* `{{H5057}}` **nâgîyd** (captain, chief, governor, leader, prince): This title is often associated with the one being anointed for leadership. God appointed Saul to be **captain** over His people through anointing [[1 Samuel 10:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4886}}` is significant, establishing key principles of divine appointment and consecration.
* **Divine Selection:** The act of anointing is a visible sign of God's choice of an individual for a specific role, whether it be king, priest, or prophet. The LORD instructed Samuel, "Arise, **anoint** him: for this is he" [[1 Samuel 16:12]].
* **Empowerment by the Spirit:** Anointing is directly linked to the reception of God's Spirit for the task at hand. After David was anointed, "the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward" [[1 Samuel 16:13]]. This is also seen prophetically in the one who is anointed to preach good tidings [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* **Consecration for Service:** To **anoint** something or someone is to set them apart from common use and dedicate them for a sacred purpose. This applies to priests [[Exodus 30:30]], the tabernacle and its vessels [[Exodus 40:9]], and the altar [[Exodus 29:36]].
* **Prophetic Foretelling:** The concept culminates in the prophetic promise to **anoint** the "most Holy," pointing to a final and ultimate act of consecration [[Daniel 9:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4886}}` **mâshach** is far more than the simple act of applying oil. It is a foundational biblical concept representing divine selection, consecration, and spiritual empowerment. It is used to install kings and priests, to sanctify sacred spaces and objects, and ultimately points toward a messianic figure empowered by God's Spirit for a special mission. From a physical rubbing of oil to the impartation of the Holy Spirit, **mâshach** illustrates the act of God setting apart a person or thing for His holy purpose.
TRV