handblessing

Handblessing is a form of Christian liturgical practice that involves the touching or tracing of a person's hands with an object or another person's hands in a gesture of prayer and blessing. This practice is commonly used in various Christian denominations and is often performed during worship services, such as baptism, ordination, or the laying on of hands for healing.

The origins of handblessing are not well-documented, but it is believed to have evolved from the Jewish tradition of laying on of hands, which was a ritual used to convey God's blessing, authority, or healing power. Early Christian churches adopted this practice, incorporating it into their own liturgies.

During a handblessing ceremony, the officiant typically places their hands on the person to be blessed, or touches their hands with the object or another person's hands. This act is believed to convey the power of prayer and the blessings of God. In some traditions, handblessing is also used in conjunction with other rituals, such as anointing with oil or the recitation of prayers.

Handblessing can be performed in a variety of contexts, including individual blessings, communal worship services, and sacraments like baptism and ordination. The practice is often accompanied by prayer, scripture readings, and other rituals designed to convey the presence of God.

The significance of handblessing varies across different Christian traditions. Some view it as a means of conveying spiritual authority, while others see it as a way to express God's love and presence. Regardless of the specific context or interpretation, handblessing remains an important part of Christian worship and practice.