Definition and Significance:
Divine anointing refers to the act of being consecrated or set apart by God for a specific purpose or mission. In the biblical context, anointing often involves the application of oil as a symbol of the Holy Spirit's empowerment and presence. This sacred act signifies God's blessing, authority, and favor upon an individual or object.

Old Testament Context:
In the Old Testament, anointing was a common practice for consecrating priests, kings, and prophets. The anointing oil, typically a mixture of olive oil and spices, was used to symbolize the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. For instance, Aaron and his sons were anointed as priests: "Then you shall take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; you shall consecrate it along with all its furnishings, and it will be holy" (Exodus 40:9).

Kings were also anointed to signify their divine appointment. Samuel anointed Saul as the first king of Israel: "Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'" (1 Samuel 10:1). Similarly, David was anointed by Samuel, marking him as God's chosen king: "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward" (1 Samuel 16:13).

Prophets, too, were anointed to carry out God's messages. Elijah was instructed to anoint Elisha as his successor: "You are to anoint Jehu son of Nimshi as king over Israel, and Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel-meholah as prophet in your place" (1 Kings 19:16).

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, the concept of anointing takes on a more spiritual dimension, often associated with the Holy Spirit's work in believers' lives. Jesus Christ, the Messiah, is the ultimate fulfillment of divine anointing. The term "Messiah" itself means "Anointed One." Jesus declared His anointing in Luke 4:18-19, quoting Isaiah: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor" .

Believers in Christ are also recipients of divine anointing through the Holy Spirit. The Apostle John writes, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth" (1 John 2:20). This anointing empowers Christians to live out their faith and fulfill their God-given purposes.

Symbolism and Application:
The act of anointing with oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit's presence and the setting apart of individuals for God's service. It represents cleansing, healing, and empowerment. James encourages the practice of anointing the sick with oil in the name of the Lord: "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord" (James 5:14).

Conclusion:
Divine anointing is a profound biblical concept that underscores God's sovereign choice and empowerment of individuals for His purposes. It serves as a reminder of the Holy Spirit's active role in the lives of believers, equipping them for service and guiding them in truth.