The Apostolic Origin of Unction
The sacrament of Holy Unction (Euchelaion in Greek — the oil of prayer) has its roots in the ministry of the Apostles: "They anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them" (Mark 6:13). The Apostle James gives the clearest description: "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven" (James 5:14-15).
Notice that James connects healing of the body with forgiveness of sins — because the Orthodox understanding of sickness is that it involves the whole person. We do not have bodies that happen to have souls; we are embodied souls, unified beings in whom physical and spiritual suffering are deeply intertwined.
In the Orthodox tradition, Holy Unction is celebrated not only for those near death but for anyone who is ill — and in many parishes, the entire congregation receives the anointing together in Holy Week, since all of us carry wounds that need God's healing.
What Holy Unction Does
The sacrament offers healing: of the body (if it is God's will), of the soul, and of hidden sins that the person may not even remember or recognize. It is a powerful sacramental act of mercy — the Church reaching out to suffering members with the oil of divine compassion. It is not "last rites" in the sense of a preparation for death (though it can be given to the dying); it is an affirmation that God wills the wholeness of every person.
In the full celebration, seven priests officiate, seven Epistles and seven Gospels are read, and the sick person is anointed seven times with consecrated oil. This sevenfold anointing corresponds to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit and the completeness of the healing being sought. Even in its abbreviated form, Holy Unction is a profound encounter with the healing mercy of Christ.
Holy Unction is not only for those who are dying. It is for anyone who is weary, burdened, or sick in body or soul. All of us need it.
— St. Paisios of Mount Athos