laying on of hands
The 'laying on of hands' is a ceremonial practice in various religious traditions, symbolizing the transfer of spiritual power, blessings, or authority through touch.
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Definition
B2General
(religious)A practice where one person places their hands on another to confer spiritual energy, blessings, or healing.
Example
- During the ceremony, the priest performed the laying on of hands to bless the congregation.
B2Christianity
(religious)A ritual used to ordain church officers, confer blessings, or invoke the Holy Spirit.
Example
- The bishop performed the laying on of hands to ordain the new deacon.
B2Judaism
(religious)Known as *semikhah*, it is used to confer a blessing or authority, such as in the ordination of leaders.
Example
- In ancient times, Moses used the laying on of hands to ordain Joshua as his successor.
B2Other Traditions
(religious)A practice in various cultures to confer spiritual blessings or authority through touch.
Example
- In Navajo ceremonies, the laying on of hands is used to bless individuals.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "laying on of hands":