A procedure used from the earliest times in the manner of blessing, conferring the Holy Ghost, and ordaining to the priesthood. See Gen. 48: 14, 17; Num. 27: 18, 23; Deut. 34: 9; Matt. 9: 18; Mark 10: 13, 16; Luke 4: 40; Acts 6: 6; Acts 8: 14-17; Acts 9: 12, 17; Acts 13: 3; Acts 19: 1-7; Acts 28: 8; 1 Tim. 4: 14; 1 Tim. 5: 22; 2 Tim. 1: 6; Heb. 6: 2; James 5: 14-16; Alma 6: 1; Moro. 2; D&C 20: 41, 58, 68, 70; D&C 36: 1-2; A of F 5. Such procedure is in accord with the revealed will of the Lord, and is not a mere formality. In latter-day revelation the laying on of hands is discussed by the Lord as follows: "I will lay my hand upon you by the hand of my servant Sidney Rigdon, and you shall receive my Spirit . . ." (D&C 36: 2).

The laying on of hands also formed part of the ritual of sacrifice under the law of Moses (Ex. 29: 10, 15, 19; Lev. 1: 4; Lev. 3: 2, 8, 13; Lev. 4: 4; Lev. 8: 14).