Laying On Of Hands Bible Verses

Laying on of Hands Bible Verses: A Comprehensive Guide to its Significance

The laying on of hands is a powerful and evocative practice mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, carrying significant weight in both the Old and New Testaments. Understanding its various applications helps us appreciate its depth and enduring relevance to Christian faith and practice. This article delves into key Bible verses detailing the laying on of hands, exploring its diverse meanings and interpretations within different contexts. We'll examine its use in blessing, healing, ordination, and the impartation of the Holy Spirit.

What is the Laying on of Hands? The act itself is quite literal – the physical placing of hands on another person. However, the significance extends far beyond the physical. It symbolizes the transfer of power, authority, blessing, or spiritual impartation from one person to another. The effect depends heavily on the context and the spiritual authority of the person laying on hands.

Laying on of Hands in the Old Testament

The Old Testament provides several instances of laying on of hands, primarily associated with:

• Sacrificial Offerings: Leviticus 1:4, 3:2, 4:4, and numerous other passages detail the priest laying hands on the sacrificial animal, symbolically transferring the sins of the people onto the animal before its sacrifice. This act highlights the concept of substitutionary atonement.
• Blessings and Consecration: Numbers 8:10 describes the laying on of hands during the consecration of the Levites, symbolizing their dedication to God's service. This signifies the bestowal of a sacred office or calling.
• Commissioning and Appointment: Deuteronomy 34:9 describes Moses laying hands on Joshua, symbolically transferring leadership and authority. This illustrates the passing of a mantle or responsibility.

These Old Testament examples establish the laying on of hands as a ritualistic and symbolic act with profound spiritual implications, primarily involving transfer, dedication, and blessing.

Laying on of Hands in the New Testament

The New Testament expands on the practice, adding new dimensions to its meaning:

• Healing: Mark 16:18 describes believers laying hands on the sick and healing them. Acts 3:6 further supports this, recounting Peter's healing of a lame man through the laying on of hands. This demonstrates the power of God working through His people for physical restoration. Consider also Acts 28:8, where Paul heals the father of Publius through the laying on of hands.
• Impartation of the Holy Spirit: Acts 8:17 illustrates the laying on of hands by the apostles conferring the Holy Spirit upon those who had already believed in Jesus. Acts 19:6 also depicts a similar scene. This highlights the bestowal of spiritual gifts and empowerment.
• Ordination: Acts 6:6 speaks of the apostles laying hands on the seven chosen deacons, setting them apart for their ministry. This signifies official commissioning and the conferral of authority within the church.
• Blessings: Numerous instances in the New Testament, though not always explicitly stated as "laying on of hands," imply a similar act of blessing and impartation through the touch of a spiritual leader or apostle (e.g., the ministry of Paul). This encompasses general prayer and spiritual encouragement.

The New Testament affirms and expands upon the practice, emphasizing its role in both physical and spiritual healing, ordination, and the impartation of spiritual gifts.

Understanding the Significance

The laying on of hands isn't a magical ritual; its effectiveness relies on faith in God's power and the spiritual authority of the person performing the act. It's a symbolic action that signifies spiritual connection, transfer of power, and divine blessing. Its various uses across scripture underscore its adaptability and importance within the Christian faith. The verses listed here provide only a starting point for further study and reflection on this profound spiritual practice. Remember to always approach such practices with prayer, humility, and a focus on God's will.