LAYING HANDS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "laying hands" refers to a spiritual or healing practice that involves the physical touch or gesture of placing one's hands on a person, often with a specific intention or purpose. Primarily associated with religious or spiritual traditions, especially within Christianity, it is believed to transmit or channel divine power, energy, or blessings to the individual being touched.
In this practice, the person performing the act of laying hands is commonly regarded as a conduit for divine or supernatural energy. It is often performed by religious leaders, such as priests, pastors, or spiritual healers who possess a special authority or anointing within their respective faith communities. The touch is believed to invoke intercession or supplication on behalf of the individual, seeking spiritual healing, comfort, or restoration.
Laying hands can be used for a variety of purposes, such as healing physical ailments, emotional or psychological support, spiritual guidance, or even imparting blessings. The act is often accompanied by prayer, incantations, or spoken words of invocation, further reinforcing the supplication or intention behind the touch.
While laying hands primarily holds religious or spiritual connotations, it can also be seen as a symbolic act of empathy, comfort, or support in non-religious contexts. The physical touch itself can convey care, compassion, and solidarity, offering solace or encouragement to individuals in need. In these secular contexts, the act may not carry the same supernatural or divine significance, but it remains a powerful gesture of human connection and emotional support.
Common Misspellings for LAYING HANDS
Etymology of LAYING HANDS
The phrase "laying hands" has a religious and spiritual connotation, predominantly in Christianity. Its etymology can be traced back to biblical origins, specifically to the New Testament of the Bible. In the Gospel of Mark (Mark 16:18), Jesus is cited as saying, "they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover". This verse is often interpreted as a command or instruction to perform healing through the physical act of placing hands on someone, which became known as "laying on of hands". The practice of laying hands then emerged within the early Christian communities as a means of transmitting blessings, healing, or invoking the power of the Holy Spirit. Over time, the phrase "laying hands" has become a widely recognized term for this ritualistic act.
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