Covenant in the Bible
A covenant is a binding bond — God committing Himself to His people by oath. From Noah to Christ, every redemptive milestone is a covenant moment.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →Jeremiah 31:31
“Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel.”Read in context
Hebrews 8:6
“He is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.”Read in context
Genesis 17:7
“I will establish my covenant... to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.”Read in context
Berith: the binding bond
Hebrew berith (H1285) is 'cut' rather than merely made — sealed by sacrifice. God commits Himself by oath, and His covenant love (hesed) is the steady fruit.
Diatheke: the new testament
Greek diatheke (G1242) carries the sense of an unalterable disposition — closer to a last will than a negotiated treaty. The new covenant is ratified by Christ's blood and cannot be revoked.
Frequently asked questions
What is a covenant in the Bible?
A binding bond initiated by God, sealed by sacrifice, in which He commits Himself to His people by oath (Genesis 17:7; Hebrews 8:6).
What is the new covenant?
The covenant promised in Jeremiah 31 and inaugurated by Jesus' blood (Luke 22:20) — internal, forgiving, and unbreakable (Hebrews 8:6–13).