anointing is a term originating from the Latin "anoint" which means "to grease". the anointing is the effect of anointing some part of the body with an oily product. In the religious sense, anointing is practiced as part of a ritual in order to exert spiritual influence, sometimes with the purpose of blessing or even healing.
According to religious belief, an anointed being is under divine protection and the anointing can cure some physical or spiritual illness.
Ointment is the name given to the product (fat) applied in an anointing. Several biblical passages mention this practice:
"And from this shalt thou make the holy anointing oil, the perfume composed according to the perfumer's work: this shall be the holy anointing oil." Exodus 30:25
"And the anointing oil, and the aromatic incense for the sanctuary; they will do according to all that I have commanded you". Exodus 31:11
"And thou shalt anoint them as thou hast anointed their father, that they may administer the priesthood to me, and their anointing shall be an everlasting priesthood to them throughout their generations." Exodus 40:15
"Then Mary, taking an ointment of pure nard oil, very costly, anointed Jesus' feet, and dried his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the smell of ointment". John 12:3
