Covenant - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

In the context of GCSE Religious Studies, a covenant is a solemn and binding agreement made between two parties, often seen in religious texts as a promise between God and humans. Covenants are important in many religions particularly within Christianity and Judaism, where they illustrate foundational stories and moral teachings. For example, the Old Testament describes the covenant between God and Abraham, promising him many descendants, land, and blessings for his faithfulness. Covenants are characterised by commitments and obligations, sometimes accompanied by specific signs or rituals, signifying a deeper spiritual relationship and mutual expectations. They form a central theme in understanding how faith communities view their responsibilities and relationship with the divine.