Unction, or the Anointing of the Sick, is a Christian sacrament in which a person who is ill or suffering is anointed with oil and prayed over, often by a priest or minister. The sacrament is meant to provide spiritual strength, comfort, and healing, and it is particularly associated with offering God’s grace to those facing serious illness or the end of life.

Key Concepts:

1. Spiritual and Physical Healing:
   The Anointing of the Sick is believed to offer both spiritual healing, through the forgiveness of sins, and physical healing, though not always in a miraculous sense. It strengthens the individual’s faith and trust in God during times of suffering.
2. Comfort and Strength:
   This sacrament provides comfort to the sick person, reassuring them of God’s presence and care. It is often performed when someone is seriously ill, facing surgery, or near the end of life.
3. Connection to Jesus’ Ministry:
   The sacrament is rooted in the ministry of Jesus, who healed the sick and anointed individuals with oil (Mark 6:13). It is seen as a way to continue his work of healing and offering grace to the suffering.

Controversy:

1. Not Specifically Instituted by Jesus:
   While the practice of anointing the sick is mentioned in the New Testament (James 5:14-15), there is no direct record of Jesus instituting this sacrament in the same way he did baptism or the Lord’s Supper. This has led to debates about its necessity and how it should be practiced.
2. Misunderstanding of Purpose:
   Some argue that the sacrament is sometimes misunderstood as a guarantee of physical healing, whereas it is more about spiritual support and God’s grace in times of suffering. Critics may question the focus on physical healing, which is not always promised by the sacrament.

Unction in Practice:

1. The Ritual:
   The sacrament typically involves the anointing of the forehead and hands with blessed oil, accompanied by prayers for healing and comfort. In some traditions, a short liturgy or scripture readings are included.
2. When It Is Administered:
   It is typically administered when a person is seriously ill, undergoing surgery, or facing the end of life. In many traditions, it is also called “Last Rites” when it is given to those near death.
3. Spiritual Preparation:
   Before the anointing, the individual may be encouraged to confess sins (if applicable) and reflect on their relationship with God. The sacrament is meant to strengthen their spirit and prepare them for God’s will.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.