Covenant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
covenant
[หkสvษnษnt ]
Definitions
legal agreement
A covenant is a formal, legal agreement or contract between two or more parties, outlining their rights and responsibilities.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| covenant |
Typically used in a religious or formal context to describe a solemn agreement or promise between two parties.
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| agreement |
A general term for any kind of arrangement or understanding between two or more parties.
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| contract |
Used in a legal or business context to describe a binding agreement, often written and legally enforceable.
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| pact |
Typically used in political or diplomatic contexts to describe a formal agreement between two or more parties, often countries.
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Examples of usage
- The two companies signed a covenant to share resources and collaborate on future projects.
- In the divorce settlement, they included a covenant regarding the custody of their children.
religious promise
In religious contexts, a covenant is a promise or agreement between God and his people, often associated with divine protection and blessings.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| covenant |
Used in formal or legal contexts to describe a serious and binding agreement, often with religious or historical connotations.
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| promise |
Means a declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen, suitable for personal and informal contexts.
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| agreement |
A general term for a mutual understanding or arrangement between two or more parties, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
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| oath |
Used to describe a solemn promise, often invoking a divine witness, typically made in legal, formal, or ceremonial contexts. It implies a higher level of seriousness and commitment.
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Examples of usage
- The covenant between God and Abraham is a central theme in the Old Testament.
- The Ten Commandments are seen as a covenant between God and the Israelites.
common usage
In everyday language, a covenant can refer to a strong, unbreakable bond or pledge between individuals or groups.
Synonyms
bond, commitment, pledge.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| covenant |
Typically used in legal or formal religious contexts to describe an agreement or promise that holds significant importance or gravity.
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| bond |
Refers often to a strong connection or tie, whether emotional, financial, or social. Can be used in contexts ranging from personal relationships to financial agreements.
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| pledge |
Usually pertains to a solemn promise or assurance, often used in public, official, or fundraising contexts. Can carry more of a formal or ceremonial tone.
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| commitment |
Used to convey a sense of dedication or obligation to an individual, task, or cause. Mostly appears in personal, professional, or social settings.
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Examples of usage
- Their friendship was like a covenant that lasted a lifetime.
- The soldiers made a covenant to always have each other's backs in battle.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'convenire,' meaning 'to come together,' signifying the agreement of two parties.
- Covenants have been part of various cultures for thousands of years, often seen in ancient contracts and legal documents.
- In biblical contexts, covenants often refer to agreements made by God with people, guiding their relationships and behaviors.
Law
- In legal terms, a covenant can appear in contracts, especially in real estate, where it defines rights and duties.
- Covenants in law can be restrictive, meaning they limit what a person can do with their property for the benefit of others.
- Breaking a covenant can lead to legal disputes, demonstrating the importance of keeping such promises.
Religion
- In Judaism and Christianity, significant covenants include God's promises to Noah and Abraham, holding deep spiritual meaning.
- Covenants often symbolize a two-way relationship with commitments from both sides to uphold values or beliefs.
- The New Covenant in Christianity represents a new agreement believers have with God, focusing on love and grace.
Literature
- Covenants often appear as themes in literature, exploring the implications of broken promises and the responsibilities of agreements.
- Prominent authors, like John Milton in 'Paradise Lost,' employ the concept of covenant to delve into moral dilemmas and spiritual allegiances.
- Contemporary novels may explore the personal implications of covenants, often questioning their moral weight and outcomes.
Culture
- In many cultures, the idea of a covenant is tied to rituals, celebrations, or agreements that bond communities together.
- Examples include marriage vows, which are seen as a personal covenant between partners promising to support each other.
- Modern social movements often invoke the concept of a covenant to encourage cooperation and solidarity among diverse groups.
Origin of 'covenant'
The word 'covenant' originated from the Old French word 'convenant', which derived from the Latin 'convenire' meaning 'to agree'. The concept of covenants has deep historical roots, with references in religious texts such as the Bible and legal documents throughout history.