Covenant

A solemn agreement between God and humanity, central to understanding the relationship between the divine and human in all three faiths.

In Judaism

Multiple covenants structure the relationship with God: the Noahic covenant (universal, with the rainbow sign), the Abrahamic covenant (promising land and descendants, sealed by circumcision), and the Mosaic/Sinai covenant (the Torah and its commandments). The covenant is eternal and defines Jewish identity and obligation.

In Christianity

Christians speak of “Old” and “New” covenants. The New Covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah, is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Through his death and resurrection, a new relationship with God is established, open to all peoples through faith. The Eucharist commemorates the “blood of the new covenant.”

In Islam

God’s covenant with humanity is expressed through the succession of prophets and revelations. The primordial covenant (Mithaq) in Quran 7:172 describes God asking all human souls before creation “Am I not your Lord?” to which they testified “Yes.” This establishes the innate human recognition of God (fitra).