The act of setting something apart for a specific, sacred purpose through the application of oil is a recurring theme in Scripture. This practice signified consecration, sanctification, and endowment with divine power for a designated role or service. For instance, kings, priests, and prophets were frequently marked in this way as a demonstration of their calling and authority.
This ritual held considerable weight, symbolizing the impartation of the Holy Spirit and divine favor. It served as a public declaration of God’s chosen individuals, equipping them with the necessary gifts and abilities to fulfill their assigned tasks. Historically, this procedure underscored the legitimacy of leadership and the divine origin of the individual’s mandate.