ANOINTING OF THE SICK
IS IT BIBLICAL?
The practice of anointing the sick is indeed biblical, with key references found in both the Old and New Testaments. Here are the main biblical foundations and messages for Christians regarding the anointing of the sick:
BIBLICAL REFERENCES
1. James 5:14-15: “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.” This passage provides clear instructions for anointing the sick with oil and praying for healing, emphasizing the role of the elders (presbyters) of the church and the power of communal prayer.
2. Mark 6:12-13: “So they went off and preached repentance. They drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.” Here, the disciples anointed many sick people with oil and healed them, illustrating the continuation of Jesus’ healing ministry through His apostles.
3. Isaiah 61:1: “The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the afflicted, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, release to the prisoners.” This Old Testament passage speaks of the anointing by God, signifying the consecration and empowerment to bring healing and liberation, which prefigures the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
4. Exodus 29:7: “Take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head.”
5. Psalm 23:5: “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
In the Old Testament, anointing with oil was used for consecration and as a symbol of God’s blessing.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
The practice of anointing the sick has its roots in the healing ministry of Jesus and the early Church. Throughout His life, Jesus sought out the sick and offered them healing. The apostles continued this ministry, anointing the sick with oil as recorded in Mark 6:13.
Early Church history shows that anointing the sick was a common practice:
– Around 215 AD, the Apostolic Tradition of Hippolytus described how bishops blessed oil for anointing the sick.
– In 416 AD, Pope Innocent I described the use of blessed oil for the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.
– By 428 AD, St. Cyril of Alexandria encouraged Christians to turn to the Church for healing rather than pagan practices.
Over time, the understanding of the sacrament evolved:
– In the Middle Ages, it became associated more with last rites and was often delayed until near death.
– The Council of Trent in 1551 affirmed that only priests could administer this sacrament.
– The Second Vatican Council in 1965 restored the original meaning of the sacrament, emphasizing its role in supporting all who are seriously ill, not just the dying.
MEANING AND SIGNIFICANCE
The anointing of the sick carries several important meanings for Christians:
1. Petition for Healing: It is a way to seek God’s healing power, both physical and spiritual.
2. Unity with Christ’s Suffering: The rite unites the sick person with Christ’s own suffering.
3. Consecration: Anointing symbolizes setting apart the sick person for God’s special care and attention.
4. Forgiveness: The practice is associated with the forgiveness of sins, as indicated in James 5:15.
5. Empowerment of the Holy Spirit: Anointing is linked to the work of the Holy Spirit in bringing comfort, strength, and healing.
REFLECTION
The biblical practice of anointing the sick offers several important messages for Christians today:
1. God Cares About Our Suffering: The act of anointing reminds us that God is deeply concerned with our physical and spiritual well-being.
2. The Power of Communal Prayer: James instructs the sick to call for the elders, emphasizing the importance of the faith community in times of illness.
3. Faith and Healing: While not guaranteeing physical healing, the practice encourages faith in God’s power to heal and His ultimate plan for our lives.
4. Holistic Approach to Health: Anointing addresses both physical and spiritual needs, reminding us of the interconnection between body and soul.
5. God’s Mercy in Forgiveness: The association with forgiveness of sins highlights God’s desire to bring complete restoration to His people.
As we reflect on the Anointing of the Sick, let us remember the profound love and mercy that God extends to us through the Church. This sacrament is a tangible sign of God’s grace, bringing healing, comfort, and peace in our most vulnerable moments. May we always seek God’s presence in our times of need and support one another in faith and prayer.