The term baptisms (or washings) is plural, indicating it means more than just Christian baptism. In first-century Judaism, teachings about different washings were common (see Matthew 15:2; Mark 7:3). The author might also refer to the cleansing rituals from the Old Testament (compare Hebrews 9:13; 10:22).
The laying on of hands was linked to:
Resurrection of the dead: See “The Resurrection of the Dead” Theme Note.
eternal judgment: See Revelation 20:11–15.