How to Anoint using Holy Oil
Anointing oil—otherwise known as blessing or consecrating oil—is an act that changes regular olive oil into a spiritual symbol and tool. The ancient practice of anointing with oils dates back to the Old Testament. The anointing oil was poured over the heads of prophets, priests and kings. It also was used to anoint objects, such as the sacred objects and vessels found in the Tabernacle and Temple.
Why Do We Anoint with Oil?
The main reason we anoint with oil is to consecrate a person, place or thing to God. Anointing with oil also is part of the church’s ministry to the sick.
No matter the reason, when we anoint with oil we are exercising our faith in a loving and all-powerful God who hears and answers our prayers.
What Is Anointing Oil Made of?
The recipe for anointing oil can be found in Exodus 30: 23-14. It was comprised of myrrh, cinnamon and other natural ingredients. The guidelines for creating the original oil were strict and precise, testing the ability of the Israelites to follow God’s instructions and have faith in what he instructs.
The ingredients are carefully blended and then added to a base of virgin olive oil. The olive oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit and speaks of its work and presence in our lives.
Myrrh.This fragrant gum used in the holy anointing oil comes from the stem of a low, thorny, ragged tree found in Arabia and East Africa. The reddish-brown sticky material actually is the dried sap of the Commiphora myrrha tree. Myrrh also was used in Biblical times to anoint a body before burial.
Frankincense.One of the principle ingredients of the Holy Incense, frankincense was used in the Sanctuary and given to the baby Jesus.
Sweet Cinnamon. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum) is a small evergreen tree. Due to its distinct odor, its bark is widely used as a spice. Its flavor comes from an aromatic essential oil. This oil is prepared by pounding the bark, softening it in seawater and then quickly distilling it. It is goldenyellow and has the distinguishing odor of cinnamon and a hot aromatic taste!
Spikenard. Mary of Bethany used this fragrance to anoint Jesus. It speaks of costly and extravagant love for God.
Hyssop. An important ingredient used in Biblical times, hyssop was used in the ceremonial cleaning of people and places. It speaks of cleansing, restoration and rededication.
Cedar. Like Hyssop, cedar was used in ceremonial cleaning. It also was used extensively in constructing the Temple. It speaks of holiness and inner strength.
Cassia.One of the first known spices, Romans believed cinnamon's fragrance to be sacred and burned it at funerals.The fact that cassia and other spices are used for anointing oil shows the Israelites interacted with trading caravans that visited Egypt, Syria and Palestine.
Olive oil. Olive oil is used in many aspects of life including cooking, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and soaps and as a fuel for traditional oil lamps. It is mentioned in the Scriptures some 50 times. The tree “epitomizes the Spirit of the Lord.” Because of that, in ancient times just as in modern Israel today, it is forbidden to cut them down.
Today’s holy anointing oil is made of the finest olive oil, pure myrrh and frankincense.
Choosing Anointing Oils
The special anointing oils from the Holy Land are wonderful to use in your devotions. They have both a physical and spiritual connection with the Land of God. There is a large variety of formulas and scents and which to use can be daunting. First, you can choose based on personal preference as to which scent suits you. One of the ideas of scented anointing oil is that the lingering scent reminds you to keep The Lord in the center of your thoughts and to give small thanks to Him throughout the day. Additionally, you can choose the formula based on the purpose… whether it is for a bride’s special day, for the sick, for safe travels. Certain formulas would be better for certain uses.
Before use, pray a blessing over the anointing oil. It should be firm and of good faith. It also must ask God to bless and cleanse the oil so it can be used for “the sake of God’s glory.”
Using Anointing Oil
It’s important to understand the true powerbehind anointing oil. Anointing oil is symbolic of our faith in God and His ability to cleanse and make all things holy. You can anoint yourself when you pray and when you’re troubled or sick. The common way to anoint yourself is to wet your right thumb with a little oil and make the Sign of the Cross on your forehead while saying, “In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
There are many ways to use anointing oils. Follow your heart and let your prayer be your guide as to how best anointing oils can be used for you. If you are unsure, you can consult a congregational leader. However, your relationship with God is the very best source in how you can be in service to Him.
Where to Get Anointing Oils
JesusBoat.com offers a variety of anointing oils for sale. Choose from frankincense, myrrh, EinGedi, Prosperity Fertility Pomegranate, Prosperity Henna, King Solomon and many more.
We trust you will find our products to be of the highest quality. We pray that each item will be a blessing to all who buy, give and receive.