Definition
The Second Anointing is a sacred ordinance within the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) that is presented as a higher or more exalted form of the temple endowment. It is intended to confer a special spiritual covenant of “greater glory” and promises of exaltation to participants.
Overview
The ordinance is administered in LDS temples after a member has already received the initial temple endowment and, typically, after they are sealed in marriage. Historically, it has been offered only to a limited number of members, often those regarded as having demonstrated exceptional faithfulness, leadership, or service within the church. Recipients are usually informed of the ordinance privately and are required to keep the details confidential. The Second Anointing is considered by adherents to be a sealing of the “new and everlasting covenant” and an assurance of receiving the highest degree of exaltation in the afterlife.
Etymology/Origin
The phrase “second anointing” derives from the biblical practice of anointing individuals with oil to denote divine appointment or sanctification. Within early LDS teachings, the concept of a “second anointing” was expressed by church leaders in the early 20th century as an extension of the original anointing associated with the temple endowment. The term entered official church discourse through revelations and statements attributed to church presidents such as Joseph F. Smith and Heber J. Grant, who described it as a “higher anointing” beyond the standard endowment.
Characteristics
- Prerequisites: Recipients must have previously received the temple endowment, be a living, sealed spouse, and be deemed worthy by local church authorities.
- Ritual Elements: The ordinance involves a series of prayers, a special anointing with consecrated oil, and a personal covenant in which the participant is promised “the fullness of the priesthood” and “the highest degree of exaltation.” The specific wording of the prayers is not publicly disclosed.
- Secrecy: Participants are instructed to keep the ordinance confidential; discussion of the ceremony outside of authorized contexts is discouraged.
- Frequency: The Second Anointing is not a regularly scheduled ordinance; it is conferred infrequently and on a case‑by‑case basis.
- Theological Significance: Within LDS doctrine, the ordinance is linked to the doctrine of eternal progression and the attainment of “godhood.” It is viewed as an assurance that the participant will inherit all blessings promised in the “new and everlasting covenant.”
Related Topics
- Temple Endowment – the foundational ordinance of which the Second Anointing is considered an extension.
- Sealing (Mormonism) – the covenant of marriage that often precedes eligibility for the Second Anointing.
- Priesthood (LDS Church) – the authority conferred in temple ordinances, including the higher priesthood promises associated with the Second Anointing.
- Exaltation (Mormonism) – the ultimate doctrinal goal of attaining god‑like status in the afterlife, which the Second Anointing is said to guarantee.
- Latter‑day Saint Temple Practices – the broader context of sacred rites performed within LDS temples.