I read a lot about “laying hands on people” in the Bible. Please explain.

It was done to give a blessing (Gen. 48:14ff; Matt. 19:13-15).

It was done while offering sacrifices in the Old Testament (Lev. 3:1ff; 4:4; 16:21; Num. 8:12).

It was done to appoint someone to an office or responsibility (Num. 27:18-23; Acts 6:1-6; 13:1-3; cf. 1 Tim. 5:19-22).

It was done to pass sentence on a convicted criminal (Lev. 24:14).

It was done to miraculously heal (Lk. 4:40; Acts 28:8).

Apostles did it to bestow miraculous spiritual gifts to early Christians (Acts 6:1-6, 8; 8:14-17; 19:6; 2 Tim. 1:6).