(χριστός, anointed), The Anointed—an appellation given to the Saviour of the world, and synonymous with the Hebrew Messiah. (See Jesus.) It was a custom of antiquity to consecrate persons to the prophetic, sacerdotal, and regal offices by anointing them with oil. This custom is preserved even to modern times, at the consecration of sovereigns and ecclesiastics.

Order of Christ, a military order, founded by Dionysius I. Portugal. They had their residence at first at Castro-marim, but afterwards removed to the city of Thomar, as being nearer to the Moors of Andalusia and Estremadura.

Another military order of this name was instituted in 1205, by Albert, bishop of Riga, with the object of defending the new Christian converts of Livonia, who were persecuted by the Pagans. On their cloaks were represented a sword and a cross, and hence they were also denominated Brothers of the Sword.