Laying on of hands is a physical contact by touching of the hands. In the Old Testament and the New Testament, it was sometimes used in reference to doing physical harm (Gen. 22:12, Luke 20:19). In the NT, it is also used to signify an attempt at healing (Acts 9:12) and commissioning of Holy Work (1 Tim. 4:14). Usually, during the ordination of an elder, hands are laid on him as a symbol of a transfer of authority and power.