Learn more about Chrism

Introduction to Chrism

The word “Chrism” refers to a consecrated oil used in various Christian liturgical rites, particularly for anointing in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and holy orders. The term derives from the Greek word χρῖσμα (chrísma), meaning “anointing” or “ointment.” It carries deep theological and symbolic significance across many Christian traditions, representing the presence of the Holy Spirit, divine blessing, and consecration to God’s service. While the term “chrism” itself does not appear in English Bible translations, its roots and theological meanings are deeply embedded in the biblical practice of anointing with oil.

Chrism Pronunciation

“Chrism” is pronounced as KRIZ-əm, with the first syllable rhyming with “is” and a soft ending.

Chrism in the Bible

Though the exact word “chrism” is not used in the biblical texts, the concept of anointing with oil is thoroughly biblical and foundational to the term. Several scriptures establish the practice of anointing with oil as symbolic of God's selection and empowerment:

• Exodus 30:22-33: God commands Moses to prepare a holy anointing oil using specific ingredients. This sacred oil was used to consecrate the tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, the priests, and other items used in worship.
• 1 Samuel 10:1: The prophet Samuel anoints Saul with oil, signifying his divine appointment as Israel’s first king.
• 1 Samuel 16:13: Samuel anoints David as king, and the Spirit of the Lord comes powerfully upon him from that day forward.
• Psalm 133:2: Describes the beauty of unity among brethren as being like “precious oil poured on the head,” evoking priestly and communal blessing.
• Isaiah 61:1: “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me...” This passage, later quoted by Jesus (Luke 4:18), ties anointing to divine mission and empowerment.
• James 5:14: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders... and pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.” This passage reflects the continuing New Testament use of anointing oil for healing and blessing.

Chrism in Christian Tradition

In Christian practice, especially within the Catholic, Orthodox, and some Anglican and Lutheran traditions, chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balsam, consecrated by a bishop. It plays a critical role in several sacraments:

• Baptism: After baptism, the person is anointed with chrism as a sign of being sealed with the Holy Spirit.
• Confirmation: The confirmand is anointed on the forehead with chrism by the bishop, who says, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
• Holy Orders: During the ordination of priests and bishops, the hands or head are anointed with chrism to signify divine empowerment for ministry.
• Consecration of Altars and Churches: Chrism is also used to anoint and sanctify physical spaces and items set apart for worship.

Related Themes and Meanings to Chrism

Several key themes are associated with chrism and anointing in general:

• Anointing: Represents divine election, empowerment, and blessing.
• Holy Spirit: Chrism symbolizes the indwelling and work of the Spirit in the life of the believer.
• Consecration: Anointing with chrism marks a person or object as set apart for sacred use.
• Messiah/Christ: The Greek word “Christos” (Christ) and the Hebrew “Mashiach” (Messiah) both mean “Anointed One.” Thus, all anointing rituals symbolically point to Jesus, the ultimate Anointed One.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Chrism

• Chrism is usually blessed by a bishop during Holy Week, often on Maundy Thursday in a special “Chrism Mass.”
• The balsam added to the oil gives chrism a sweet fragrance, symbolizing the “aroma of Christ” (2 Corinthians 2:15) and the attractiveness of a life lived in God’s presence.
• In the early church, chrism was sometimes referred to in catechetical writings by Church Fathers such as Tertullian and Cyril of Jerusalem as “spiritual seal” or “ointment of salvation.”
• While chrism is most prominently used in high-church traditions, even some Protestant communities retain oil anointing practices for healing or prayer.

Conclusion

Though not named explicitly in the Bible, “chrism” embodies the rich theological and symbolic heritage of biblical anointing. As a physical sign of spiritual truths—divine calling, consecration, healing, and the presence of the Holy Spirit—it remains a deeply meaningful practice in the life of the Church, reminding believers of their identity in Christ, the Anointed One.