In Hebrews 6:1–3, the writer lists “the laying on of hands” as one of the foundational doctrines of Christ, placing it alongside repentance, faith, baptism, resurrection, and eternal judgment. While often overlooked, this practice runs deeply through both Old and New Testament history. From blessing and commissioning in the Old Covenant to healing, impartation, and ordination in the New, the laying on of hands has always been a visible sign of God’s work through His people. It is not a mystical ritual but a simple, God-ordained act that expresses identification, blessing, and the shared life of the body of Christ.

Laying On of Hands in the Old Testament

1. To give a blessing – Jacob laid hands on his grandsons to pass on God’s blessing (Gen 48:14) 

2. To identify with sacrifice – Sins of the people were transferred to the sacrificial animal (Lev 1:4) (Lev 16:21-22)

3. To appoint leaders – Moses laid hands on Joshua to commission him for leadership (Num 27:18–23) (Deut 34:9)
   
   In each case, laying on of hands was more than a ritual—it was a way God used to impart something real, whether blessing, authority, or identification, from the one laying hands to the one receiving.

Laying On of Hands in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the laying on of hands was central to many foundational aspects of church life. It was used for healing the sick, for believers to receive the Holy Spirit, and for ordination and commissioning into ministry. It was also used in prayers for restoration, bringing both physical healing and spiritual renewal (Jas 5:14–15). Through this simple, physical act, the early church experienced the communal life of Christ—imparting blessing, confirming calling, releasing the Spirit’s power, and ministering healing and restoration as members of one body.

1. For healing – Laying hands on the sick brought healing(Mk 6:5; Acts 9:17–18, Mark 16:15-18, Acts 28:8, Jas 5:14–15, )
   
   

2. To receive the Holy Spirit – The apostles laid hands on new believers to receive the Spirit (Acts 8:17; Acts 19:6)
   
   

3. For commissioning and sending – Leaders laid hands on others to set them apart for ministry and mission (Acts 6:6; Acts13:1-3; 1 Tim 4:14)
   
   

4. For blessing – Jesus laid hands on children to bless them (Mark 10:16)

The laying on of hands is an important practice in the church. Through it, God works in many ways - sending people into ministry, bringing healing, giving blessing, and filling believers with the Holy Spirit. As followers of Jesus, we are invited to take part in this practice, being a blessing to others and sharing in the life and ministry of God’s family together.