Covenant Meaning

Covenant

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A formal and legally binding agreement or contract between two or more parties.
2. A promise or pledge made by one party to another, often in a religious or moral context.
3. In biblical terms, an agreement or contract between God and humans, as seen in the Old Testament.
4. A written or spoken agreement outlining obligations or responsibilities, often in a legal or religious setting.
5. A formal agreement between members of a group, organization, or community regarding conduct, duties, or expectations.

History and Origin

The word “covenant” comes from the Old French convenant, meaning “agreement” or “contract,” derived from the Latin convenire, meaning “to come together” or “to agree.” The concept of covenant is particularly significant in religious and historical contexts, especially in the Bible, where it refers to God’s promises to His people. Over time, the term also came to be used in legal and social contexts, describing binding agreements between individuals or groups.

Detailed Explanation

A “covenant” refers to a formal, binding agreement or promise between two or more parties. In legal terms, it is often used to describe contracts or treaties that impose obligations or duties on the parties involved. In religious contexts, particularly in Christianity and Judaism, a covenant represents a sacred promise between God and humanity, such as the one made with Noah or the Israelites. Covenants can be both written or verbal, and they typically involve specific terms and conditions that must be honored by all parties involved.

Example Sentences

1. The two nations signed a covenant to ensure peace and cooperation for the next decade.
2. In the Bible, God made a covenant with the Israelites to be their protector and guide.
3. The couple exchanged vows as part of their covenant of marriage.
4. The landlord and tenant agreed on a covenant regarding the upkeep of the property.
5. The covenant between the two companies outlined their responsibilities in the partnership.
6. The covenant of the marriage ceremony binds the couple to a lifelong commitment.
7. The ancient covenant between the tribes ensured mutual defense and prosperity.
8. The covenant was written in the contract, detailing the terms of the agreement.
9. He felt bound by the covenant to uphold the promises made in his will.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Agreement – A mutual understanding or arrangement between two or more parties.
2. Contract – A legally binding document outlining terms between two parties, often used as a synonym for covenant.
3. Pledge – A formal promise or commitment, similar to the concept of a covenant.
4. Treaty – A formal and legal agreement between nations, often akin to a covenant.
5. Accord – A formal agreement or harmony between parties, especially in a diplomatic or legal context.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Commitment – A pledge or obligation to fulfill an agreement, often part of a covenant.
2. Promise – A declaration or assurance to do something, which can be part of a covenant.
3. Vow – A solemn or serious promise, often in the context of a religious or marital covenant.
4. Obligation – A duty or responsibility that arises from an agreement or covenant.
5. Alliance – A union or partnership between two parties, sometimes based on a covenant or agreement.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Accord – A mutual agreement between parties, often involving a formal arrangement like a covenant.
2. Deed – A legal document that formalizes an agreement, often connected with a covenant.
3. Concord – Harmony or agreement between parties, often in the context of a covenant.
4. Bond – A tie or obligation that holds parties together, similar to a covenant.
5. Treaty – A formal agreement between countries, often likened to a covenant in international law.

Antonyms

1. Breach
2. Violation
3. Disagreement
4. Severance
5. Renouncement