 The oil used in a ceremonial anointment may be called "chrism" (from Greek , "khrîsma", "anointing"), although Christianity usually distinguishes a particularly sanctified chrism from other oils which might also be used.Several related words such as "chrismation" (anointing with oil) and "chrismarium" (a vessel containing chrism or another holy oil) derive from the same root.Anointing served and serves three distinct purposes