Throughout history, anointing has been revered as one of the most sacred acts — a ritual that transcends mere ceremony to touch the soul, invoke divine blessing, and sanctify the body as a vessel of spirit. Among the most luminous figures associated with this ancient art is Mary Magdalene, the beloved disciple and spiritual counterpart of Yeshua (Jesus).
It was she who anointed him both before and after the crucifixion — acts not only of devotion but of profound spiritual significance, preparing his body for death, resurrection, and ascension.

In ancient times, anointing was a holy rite practiced by the priestesses of Isis in ancient Egypt. These priestesses — keepers of the Mysteries — anointed the living and the dead to seal spiritual protection, invoke divine energies, and activate the light body for transition between worlds. The oils themselves were viewed as liquid light, infused with celestial codes.

In sacred union rituals — such as those that preceded entering the bridal chamber — the priestess would anoint her beloved to honor his body as the sacred vessel for the Soul. This was not necessarily a sensual practice; it was sacrament, preparing their souls to merge in union not just with each other, but with the Divine Mother-Father God.

Mary Magdalene, often called "The Apostle to the Apostles," was deeply trained in these mysteries. When she anointed Yeshua with spikenard — a precious and costly oil — she was recognizing his role not just as a teacher, but as the embodiment of the Christed light. This anointing was both a preparation and a recognition, an act of immense spiritual power that transcended words.

At the Last Supper it is said that Mary broke an expensive alabaster jar with oils of spikenard and myrrh to anoint Yeshua in Bethany.

She anointed Yeshua’s head and feet with the balm, proclaiming him their messiah in keeping with the traditions of her people, and the Song of Songs as given from Solomon.

“It was a spiritual moment for all of us, one filled with hope and symbolism. Although the apostle Judas did not approve, suggesting the oil could have been sold to provide food for the poor, Yeshua responded, ‘You will have the poor always, but you will not always have me. And let me say this further-wherever the deeds of my life are preached throughout the world, so will this woman’s name be preached with my own. Let this be don'e as a memorial to her and the good works she has wrought for us.”’ ~ Kathleen McGowan

An image depicting Mary Magdalene anointing Jesus’ feet at Notre Dame in Paris, France

Oils of Ancient Power

The sacred oils used in these rites were carefully chosen for their spiritual properties:

Spikenard: Symbolizing devotion, humility, and preparation for death and rebirth. It calms the mind and opens the soul to the mysteries.
Frankincense: Used to elevate prayer, open the third eye, and invoke higher realms. It strengthens the connection between the earthly and the divine.
Myrrh: A sacred oil for grieving, protection, and healing. It grounds the spirit while offering a bridge to the unseen world.
Rose: The highest frequency oil, symbolizing pure divine love. It softens the heart and invites the soul into deeper intimacy with the Beloved.

These oils were not just pleasant fragrances; they were sacraments — carriers of frequencies that aligned body, mind, and spirit.

Bringing the Sacred Art into Your Life Today

In our modern times, we are being called to remember — to reclaim these ancient practices not as relics, but as living rites that nourish our souls. Here are simple yet profound ways to begin practicing sacred anointing:

1. Anoint Yourself in Devotion

Before meditation, prayer, or sleep, anoint your third eye with a drop of frankincense or spikenard, asking for divine guidance and protection.
Anoint your feet with myrrh or rose oil, blessing the sacred path you walk.

2. Anoint a Beloved

Whether with a partner, a child, a friend, or a sister-priestess, offer the gift of anointing. Gently touch their forehead, palms, and heart center, speaking words of blessing and intention.

3. Create Your Own Anointing Ritual

Set up a small altar with candles, a bowl of water, and your chosen oils.
Speak aloud your prayers, intentions, or invocations.
Anoint yourself or another, affirming the Divine presence within.

4. Healing Through Anointing

When someone is ill, grieving, or in transition, anoint their body (or simply their forehead and hands) to offer comfort, strength, and sacred support.
Use the ancient oils as allies, each one a bridge to different realms of healing and remembrance.

Anointing is a portal — a way of calling in the sacred into the very cells of the body.
Mary Magdalene, the priestesses of Isis, and countless unnamed holy women practiced this art not as an act of superstition, but as a living, breathing prayer that honors the body's role in the soul’s journey.

Today, as women awakening to our ancient lineages, we are invited to take up the sacred oils once more, to bless ourselves, our beloveds, and our world.

May your hands remember.
May your heart open.
May your soul rise fragrant on the winds of eternity.