What Is the Origin of a Covenant Agreement?

Jesus' death and resurrection created the "new covenant" of Christianity.

Covenant agreements, which are voluntary alliances or pledges to do or not do certain things, originate in biblical times and carry deep spiritual meaning.

History

According to Easton's Bible Dictionary, the word "covenant" is derived from the Hebrew word "berith," which means "to cut." This refers to the ritual of cutting animals into two parts as a symbol of a covenant.

Function

Covenant agreements express a lasting commitment to uphold a promise between the parties.

Facts

Covenants include requirements. According to Blue Letter Bible, when a covenant was held between God and Israel, the Israelites had to obey God's law to receive his promise. The Matthew Henry Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible states, "God is judge between contending parties, and he will judge righteously; whoever do wrong, it is at their peril."

Significance

God oversees covenant agreements, which gives profound spiritual importance for the participants. According to Easton's Bible Dictionary, they are meant to be eternal contracts and have even been referred to as a "covenant of salt" because salt is a symbol of eternity.

Types

Easton's Bible Dictionary details the different types of covenants. They can be made among individuals, tribes or nations. Covenants can also be made between man and God---established with an oath and a sign of blessing and promise.

References

• Bible Gateway: Easton's Bible Dictionary, Matthew George Easton; 1987
• Blue Letter Bible: Dictionary and Word Search for bĕriyth, Strong's 1285
• Study Light: Matthew Henry Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible

Resources

• BibleGateway.com: Smith's Bible Names Dictionary
• CCEL.org: Barnes New Testament Notes
• EWordToday.com: Classic Bible Commentaries