The tradition and ceremony of anointing has been around since Biblical times. We as Christ followers have undoubtedly heard of, and perhaps even participated in these traditions many times. But just how familiar are we with this ancient Biblical heritage?

What does it mean to be anointed? Throughout the countless mentions of the word throughout the Bible, we can understand that to be anointed is, primarily, to be set apart and made holy (consecrated); to be elevated into a sacred purpose ordained by God specifically for YOU. This "anointing" into the chosen, divinely appointed service and grace of the Lord is made tangible and given physical substance through the ceremony of oil. All throughout the Bible, this special tradition has been performed with various fragrant oils and incenses. In fact, the very word "anoint" is derived from the Latin word meaning "smear with oil", "inunctus". So, we, the followers of God, make physical our ordination into the Lord's chosen through the anointing of oil.

The pomegranate has been highly prized by Israelites since Biblical times, and was one of the seven spices brought back by the spies to show the abundance of the Promised Land.

"Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the Prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven." - James 5:14-15