Extreme Unction is a sacrament in the Catholic Church. It is pronounced /ɪkˈstriːm ʌŋkʃən/ and spelled exactly as it sounds. The first syllable sounds like "ick" and the second syllable sounds like "stream." The "un" in Unction is pronounced like "uhn" and the "ct" sounds like "sh." The "ion" at the end of the word is pronounced like "shun." The spelling of the word is important in order for Catholics to properly understand and communicate about this sacrament.
Extreme Unction is a religious sacrament in the Catholic Church, often referred to as the Anointing of the Sick or Last Rites. It is administered to those who are seriously ill or in danger of death. The term "extreme" in Extreme Unction denotes that it is performed in critical circumstances, usually nearing the end of a person's life.
Within the context of the sacrament, a priest anoints the forehead and hands of the individual with holy oil while reciting prayers. This anointing is believed to provide spiritual comfort, forgiveness of sins, and the strengthening of one's faith. It is considered a means of receiving grace from God during a time of physical and spiritual suffering.
Extreme Unction is rooted in scriptural and traditional teachings, specifically drawing from James 5:14-15 in the New Testament. It is not exclusively reserved for the dying but can also be administered to those undergoing serious surgeries or enduring a chronic illness. The sacrament is intended to offer spiritual healing and the possibility of physical recovery, while also preparing the soul for the journey into the afterlife.
Due to advancements in medical care, Extreme Unction is not as frequently practiced today as it once was. However, it remains an integral part of the Catholic Church's teachings and traditions, continuing to provide solace and support to those facing serious illness or the approach of death.
The word "extreme unction" originates from Latin and it consists of two components:
1. "Extreme": The word "extreme" comes from the Latin word "extremus", which means "outermost" or "utmost". In the context of the religious sacrament, it refers to the anointing being the final or last anointing received by a person before death.
2. "Unction": The word "unction" comes from the Latin word "unctio", which means "anointing". It refers to the act of anointing with oil as part of a religious ritual or sacrament.
When combined, "extreme unction" refers to the Roman Catholic sacrament of anointing the sick or dying with oil, which was traditionally performed as a safeguard for the soul before death. It is now commonly referred to as the "Anointing of the Sick" in the Catholic Church.