Genesis 17:7

Genesis 17 :7

I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.

— NIV
Speaker: god

Context

God establishes His eternal covenant with Abraham and his descendants.

Genesis 17:7

The establishment of the eternal covenant between God and Abraham, foundational to all three Abrahamic faiths.

The Covenant

God promises:

  • An everlasting covenant—not temporary
  • Between God, Abraham, and his descendants
  • For all generations to come
  • “To be your God”—a relationship, not just an agreement

In Jewish Tradition

This covenant is the basis of Jewish identity:

  • Marked by circumcision (Genesis 17:10-11)
  • Includes the promise of the land
  • Establishes the special relationship between God and Israel
  • Remains eternally valid

In Christian Tradition

Christians see this covenant fulfilled and expanded through Christ:

  • Gentiles are included through faith (Galatians 3:29)
  • Circumcision of the heart replaces physical circumcision
  • The “new covenant” (Jeremiah 31:31) is connected but distinct

In Islamic Tradition

Islam affirms Abraham’s covenant with God but sees it fulfilled through Ishmael’s line as well as Isaac’s, culminating in Muhammad.

Related Figures