Smith's Bible Dictionary (1863)
This “formed at an early period a part of the ceremony observed on the appointment and consecration of persons to high and holy undertakings;” (and in the Christian Church was especially used in setting apart men to the ministry and to other holy offices. It is a symbolical act expressing the imparting of spiritual authority and power.—ED.)
Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898) & Schaff's Bible Dictionary
LAY'ING ON OF HANDS. See Hand.