from בָּרָה (in the sense of cutting (like בָּרָא)); a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh); confederacy, (con-) feder(-ate), covenant, league.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉrîyth**, represented by `{{H1285}}`, is a foundational term for a **covenant**, compact, or league. It appears 284 times across 264 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition comes from a root meaning "to cut," referencing the ancient practice of formalizing a compact by passing between pieces of sacrificed flesh.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H1285}}` is used to establish the primary relationship between God and his people. God makes a **covenant** with Abram, promising land to his descendants [[Genesis 15:18]]. This relationship is later formalized with the nation of Israel, with their status as a peculiar treasure being conditional on their keeping His **covenant** [[Exodus 19:5]]. The theme of a "new **covenant**" is introduced, which God promises to make with Israel and Judah [[Jeremiah 31:31]], one that will be written on their hearts [[Jeremiah 31:33]]. The term can also describe a personal resolution, such as when Job makes a **covenant** with his eyes [[Job 31:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the nature and administration of a covenant:
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut; to covenant): This verb is frequently used for the act of making a **bᵉrîyth**. Its root meaning, "to cut," directly aligns with the etymology of covenant, as seen when the LORD "made a **covenant**" with Abram [[Genesis 15:18]].
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (to keep, guard, observe): This word describes the human responsibility within a covenant relationship. God is one who "keepeth **covenant** and mercy," and His people are in turn called to keep His commandments [[Deuteronomy 7:9]].
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (kindness, mercy, loving-kindness): This term is often paired with **bᵉrîyth** to express the gracious and faithful character of God's covenant promises [[Daniel 9:4]].
* `{{H6565}}` **pârar** (to break up, violate, frustrate): This verb is used to describe the act of breaking a covenant. God warns that the people will forsake Him and "break" His **covenant** [[Deuteronomy 31:16]], a failure that is later recounted [[Jeremiah 31:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1285}}` is immense, framing God's relationship with humanity.
* **Everlasting Nature:** Many of God's covenants are described as everlasting, intended to endure through all generations [[Genesis 17:7]]. God promises that His "covenant of my peace" will not be removed [[Isaiah 54:10]].
* **Ratification by Blood:** The solemnity of a covenant is often underscored by sacrifice. Scripture speaks of deliverance "by the **blood** of thy covenant" [[Zechariah 9:11]] and the establishment of a covenant with the sprinkling of blood [[Exodus 24:8]]. Those who enter this sacred pact are described as having "made a **covenant** with me by sacrifice" [[Psalms 50:5]].
* **A Call to Faithfulness:** The covenant establishes clear expectations. God is faithful to His promises [[Deuteronomy 7:9]], while humanity is called to obey and keep the covenant's terms [[Exodus 19:5]]. Breaking the covenant brings consequences [[Leviticus 26:25]], yet God remains merciful and remembers His promises [[Deuteronomy 4:31]].
* **The New Covenant:** Prophecy points toward a new and better **covenant**, one that is internalized. God promises to put His law in the inward parts of His people and write it on their hearts, establishing an unbreakable relationship [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1285}}` is far more than a simple pact. It is a solemn, binding compact that defines divine promises and human obligations. From the foundational covenants with the patriarchs to the national covenant with Israel and the prophetic promise of a new covenant written on the heart, **bᵉrîyth** serves as a cornerstone of biblical theology, illustrating the framework of relationship, redemption, and faithfulness between God and His people.
TRV