CategoryDoctrine / Consecration Term
Modern Equivalentconsecrate; appoint; set apart with oil.
KJV Word TypeVerb / consecration term
DefinitionTo pour oil on someone’s head as a sign of consecration, healing, or appointment to a divine office, such as kings, priests, or prophets.
Key Verses"Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren." (1 Samuel 16:13); "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord." (James 5:14)
KJV Usage NoteOften describes consecration to a God-given role or work, especially for kings, priests, prophets, healing, or divine service.
Common MisunderstandingIt does not only refer to healing; in Scripture it often marks appointment, consecration, or setting apart for God’s service.
EtymologyFrom Old English anointen, from Latin inunguere ("to smear on").