What is the Laying on of Hands Called?
The laying on of hands is a religious ritual that involves placing hands on a person’s head, shoulders, or body, often accompanied by prayer, blessing, or anointing with oil. The practice is rooted in the biblical tradition and is still an important part of many Christian denominations today. So, what is the laying on of hands called, and what are its different forms and significance?
Imposition of Hands
The laying on of hands is also known as imposition of hands, which is a term derived from the Latin "impotere," meaning "to place hands." In Christian tradition, the term "imposition of hands" refers specifically to the act of placing hands on a person’s head during a sacramental or ecclesiastical ceremony.
Laying on of Hands in Christianity
In Christianity, the laying on of hands is a key element in various sacraments and rituals, including confirmation, ordination, healing, and baptism. The practice is often associated with the transmission of spiritual gifts, the transfer of authority, or the impartation of blessings or healing.
Types of Laying on of Hands
There are several forms of laying on of hands, including:
- Confirmation: The laying on of hands is a significant part of the Christian rite of confirmation, during which the bishop or pastor places hands on the confirmand’s head, imparting the Holy Spirit and confirming their faith.
- Ordination: In the ordination ceremony, the laying on of hands is a symbol of the transfer of spiritual authority and the commissioning of a person to serve in a particular ministry.
- Healing: Laying on of hands is often used in Christian healing ministries, where the focus is on the physical and spiritual healing of the sick or afflicted.
- Baptism: The laying on of hands may also be part of the baptismal rite, symbolizing the transmission of spiritual life and the initiation of the person into the Christian community.
Different Christian Denominations
While the laying on of hands is a common practice across many Christian denominations, there are some variations in its form and significance. For example:
- Catholic Church: In the Catholic Church, the laying on of hands is an essential part of the sacrament of holy orders, during which bishops confer the sacrament on priests and deacons.
- Orthodox Church: In the Orthodox Church, the laying on of hands is a key element in the sacrament of chrismation, which is performed during baptism and confirmation.
- Lutheran Church: In the Lutheran Church, the laying on of hands is often used in confirmation ceremonies, although its significance and form may vary across different Lutheran denominations.
Significance of Laying on of Hands
So, what is the significance of laying on of hands in Christianity? Here are some key points:
- Transmission of Spiritual Authority: The laying on of hands is a symbol of the transmission of spiritual authority from one person to another, often from a bishop or pastor to a minister or leader.
- Impartation of Blessings: The laying on of hands is often used to impart blessings, healing, or spiritual gifts to those who receive it.
- Confirmation of Faith: The laying on of hands is a way to confirm a person’s faith, often during the rite of confirmation.
- Healing and Deliverance: The laying on of hands is also used in healing and deliverance ministries to bring physical and spiritual healing to those who are suffering.
Conclusion
The laying on of hands is a powerful and meaningful Christian practice that has been passed down through generations. While its form and significance may vary across different Christian denominations, its core significance remains the same: to transmit spiritual authority, impart blessings and healing, confirm faith, and bring people closer to God. Whether you’re a Christian or not, the laying on of hands is a fascinating topic worth exploring.