The Bible describes different ways of applying anointing oil, each carrying its own meaning. For personal anointing, the form known as mashah involves gently applying oil to the face, much like washing it. Pour a small amount into your hand and draw your hand over the face, allowing the oil to make the skin shine. This reflects the biblical image described in Psalm 104:15, where oil makes the face shine, and the instruction of Jesus in Matthew 6:17 to anoint the head and wash the face. The prophetic meaning is particularly beautiful. When Moses spent time in God's presence, his face shone with the reflected glory of the Lord (Exodus 34:29--30). Likewise, the shining face produced by anointing oil serves as a visible image of God's light and glory upon His people. It points towards the Holy Spirit dwelling within us and empowering us to reveal Jesus Christ to the world.
Not every biblical form of anointing involved applying oil to the face. Scripture also describes sprinkling oil upon people, their garments and sacred objects as an act of consecration (Exodus 29:21). Pouring oil upon the head was associated with the appointment of priests and kings, as demonstrated in Exodus 29:7 and 1 Samuel 16:13. These different applications should not be treated as interchangeable techniques. Pouring oil upon someone's head to appoint them to ministry carries a different prophetic meaning from ordinary personal anointing. Similarly, sprinkling is associated with hallowing and dedication. The familiar modern practice of placing a single drop of oil on the forehead in the shape of a cross is not presented in Scripture as the prescribed method of personal anointing. For ordinary personal use, the biblical image of gently applying oil to the face is both meaningful and practical. Use only an amount suitable for your skin, avoiding the eyes and any areas where the product may cause irritation. The significance is found in what the anointing expresses, not in covering the body with large quantities of oil.
House of Anointing