<P> In the New Testament the laying on of hands was associated with Christ healing the sick ( Luke 4 : 40 ) and after his ascension , the receiving of the Holy Spirit ( See Acts 8 : 14 -- 19 ) . Initially the Apostles laid hands on new believers as well as believers . ( See Acts 6 : 5 -- 6 ) . In the early church , the practice continued and is still used in a wide variety of church ceremonies , such as during confirmation . </P>
what does laying hands mean in the bible
Christ healing the sick the receiving of the Holy Spirit