### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishchâh**, represented by `{{H4888}}`, refers to **unction** or **ointment**. It appears **26 times** across **24 unique verses**. Derived from **mâshach** `{{H4886}}`, meaning to anoint, **mishchâh** signifies the act of anointing itself, and by implication, a **consecratory gift**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4888}}` is used in several key contexts, primarily concerning sacred rituals. It is the key ingredient in the "holy **anointing** oil" [[Exodus 30:31]], a special **ointment** created according to the "work of the apothecary" [[Exodus 37:29]]. This oil was used to **anoint** and consecrate the tabernacle and its vessels, making them holy [[Exodus 40:9]]. It was also poured upon the head of Aaron and his sons to sanctify them for the priesthood ([[Exodus 29:7]], [[Leviticus 8:12]]), establishing an "everlasting priesthood" [[Exodus 40:15]]. The portion of offerings given to the priests is referred to as their portion "by reason of the **anointing**" [[Numbers 18:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of anointing and consecration:
* `{{H4886}}` **mâshach** (to rub with oil, i.e. to anoint): As the root verb, this describes the action for which **mishchâh** is used. God **anointed** His chosen ones for a specific purpose, such as preaching good tidings [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness): This is the word for the **oil** itself, which becomes the anointing ointment. The word is used to describe the "**oil** of gladness" [[Psalms 45:7]].
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash** (to be...clean...consecrate, dedicate...hallow...sanctify): This term describes the result of the anointing. The anointing oil was used to **hallow** the tabernacle and all its vessels [[Exodus 40:9]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (literally one officiating, a priest): The **priest** is the primary figure set apart by the **anointing**. [[Leviticus 21:10]] specifically mentions the high **priest** upon whose head the **anointing** oil was poured.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4888}}` is significant, establishing key principles of worship and service.
* **Sanctification of People and Place:** The primary purpose of the **anointing** oil is to **hallow** or **sanctify** `{{H6942}}`. It was applied to both the tabernacle and its vessels [[Exodus 40:9]] and to Aaron and his sons to set them apart for the priesthood [[Leviticus 8:12]].
* **Symbol of Divine Mandate:** The **anointing** is a "consecratory gift" that signifies God's authority. The oil is called "the **anointing** oil of the LORD" [[Leviticus 10:7]], and the rights of the priesthood are given "by reason of the **anointing**" [[Numbers 18:8]], indicating a divinely appointed status.
* **Enduring Covenant:** The anointing establishes a lasting office. The **anointing** of Aaron's sons was to be for an "everlasting priesthood throughout their generations" [[Exodus 40:15]], making it a sign of an enduring ordinance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4888}}` is far more than a simple **ointment**. It represents the sacred act of anointing, a physical process with profound spiritual implications. It is the means by which people, like the Aaronic priests, and places, like the tabernacle, were consecrated for holy service to God. This **anointing** served as a tangible sign of a divine, everlasting ordinance, setting apart the chosen for a sacred purpose throughout their generations.
TRV