covenant
3 connections across theological concepts
Connections
Covenant curses (alah) are the binding negative sanctions of the same covenant — two sides of the same berit formula.
Hebrew 'to cut a covenant' (karat berit) — the phrase reveals that covenant-making was literally an act of cutting an animal in two.
The covenant meal (berit) ratifies the covenant (berit) — both derive from the cutting ceremony of ancient Near Eastern treaty-making.
Etymology
A cutting; bond established through sacrifice and ritual
From verb meaning to cut—covenants were sealed by cutting animals in two
Formal binding agreement between parties, often with hierarchical power dynamics
Suzerainty treaties influenced biblical covenant concept
Testament, will, or binding agreement; used for last will and testament
LXX translation of Hebrew brit; shaped Christian theology of Old/New Testaments
Redemption, settlement, or contractual agreement
Direct translation of Greek diatheke; entered English via legal tradition
Hebrew Roots
covenant, alliance, pledge