שמות, פרק כ״ט, פסוק ז׳

Anointing a person with holy oil is an act of profound physical and spiritual elevation. It marks a complete separation from the everyday world, dedicating the individual to a sacred duty that will be passed down through the generations. Just as oil naturally resists mixing with water, the anointed priest becomes entirely distinct from ordinary life, set apart for a higher purpose [רש״ר הירש]. This act establishes a lasting status of greatness and holy authority meant to be inherited from father to son [שד״ל].

The anointing process is intended specifically for Aaron alone, marking his unique role as the designated priest [אבן עזרא, חזקוני]. The procedure itself involves two distinct actions: first pouring the oil, and then actively anointing with it [אור החיים].

A practical question arises regarding exactly when the oil was poured in relation to the wearing of the priestly garments. One perspective suggests that the oil was poured before the turban was placed on Aaron's head, ensuring the oil went directly onto his skin rather than the fabric [אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another approach maintains that the anointing took place after the turban was already worn. According to this view, the turban was wrapped in a way that left the center of the head exposed, specifically the area where phylacteries are normally worn, allowing the oil to be poured directly onto that bare spot [רמב״ן, הטור הארוך, ביאור יש״ר].

The physical application of the oil was highly specific. A single drop of oil was placed on the head [שפתי חכמים], and another drop was placed between the eyes. These two drops were then connected by tracing a line with a finger [רש״י, ביאור יש״ר]. Commentators offer different descriptions of the exact shape drawn during this process. Some describe it as resembling the Greek letter Chi [ברכת אשר על התורה], while others suggest it looked like a bent Hebrew letter Nun, stretching from the top of the head down to the space between the eyes [ריב״א]. A third view describes the pattern as two intersecting lines. This crossing shape carries deep symbolic meaning, showing that the holiness and spiritual influence of the anointing radiate outward in all directions [רש״ר הירש].