Topical Encyclopedia The concept of a covenant in the Bible is a solemn agreement or promise between two parties, often ratified by a physical gesture or sign. One such gesture is the giving of the hand, which signifies a pledge of fidelity and trust. This practice is rooted in ancient Near Eastern customs and is reflected in various biblical narratives.Biblical Instances The act of giving the hand as a sign of covenant is mentioned in several passages, illustrating its significance in establishing agreements and alliances. In 2 Kings 10:15, Jehu encounters Jehonadab the son of Rechab and extends his hand as a gesture of alliance: "When he left there, he found Jehonadab son of Rechab, who was coming to meet him. Jehu greeted him and asked, 'Is your heart as true to mine as my heart is to yours?' 'It is,' Jehonadab replied. 'If it is,' said Jehu, 'give me your hand.' So he gave him his hand, and Jehu helped him into his chariot." This passage highlights the giving of the hand as a mutual acknowledgment of shared purpose and loyalty. The physical act of extending the hand serves as a tangible confirmation of the covenant between Jehu and Jehonadab. Cultural and Theological Significance In the ancient world, the hand was often seen as a symbol of power, action, and commitment. The act of giving the hand in a covenant context underscores the seriousness and binding nature of the agreement. It is a public declaration of one's intention to uphold the terms of the covenant, invoking a sense of accountability and honor. From a theological perspective, covenants between men reflect the broader biblical theme of covenant relationships, which are central to God's interactions with humanity. While divine covenants, such as those with Noah, Abraham, and David, are initiated by God, human covenants mirror the commitment and faithfulness expected in these divine-human relationships. Moral and Ethical Implications The practice of making covenants by giving the hand carries moral and ethical implications. It emphasizes the importance of integrity, trustworthiness, and fidelity in human relationships. In a biblical context, breaking a covenant is seen as a serious offense, as it not only violates the trust between the parties involved but also dishonors God, who is often invoked as a witness to the agreement. The giving of the hand as a covenantal gesture serves as a reminder of the weight of one's promises and the expectation to fulfill them. It calls individuals to a higher standard of conduct, reflecting the character of God, who is always faithful to His covenants. Contemporary Relevance In modern times, while the specific act of giving the hand may not be as prevalent, the principles underlying this practice remain relevant. The notion of entering into agreements with sincerity and commitment is foundational to personal, social, and legal relationships. The biblical model of covenant-making encourages individuals to approach their commitments with seriousness and to honor their word, reflecting the enduring values of trust and fidelity. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 10:19And they gave their hands that they would put away their wives; and being guilty, they offered a ram of the flock for their trespass. Nave's Topical Index Lamentations 5:6 Ezekiel 17:18 Library Now after the Flood God Made a Covenant with all the World... The Ministry of the New Covenant Why are Men Saved? The First Covenant Of the First Covenant. Covenant Duties. Manner of Covenanting. For they Loved the Praise of Men More than the Praise of God. John ... The Trouble and Rest of Good Men "There the Wicked Cease from ... The Blood of the Covenant Resources What is the Edenic covenant? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Abrahamic Covenant? | GotQuestions.org What is a covenant? | GotQuestions.org Covenant: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Covenant of God With Men: Binding Covenant of God With Men: Broken by the Jews Covenant of God With Men: Confirmed With an Oath Covenant of God With Men: Everlasting Covenant of God With Men: God Faithful To Covenant of God With Men: Punishments for Breaking of Covenant of God With Men: Repudiated by God on Account of Jews' Idolatry Covenant of Man With God: Absalom Covenant of Man With God: Israelites Covenant of Man With God: Jacob Covenant of Man With God: Jehoiada and Joash Covenant of Man With God: Joshua Covenant of Man With God: Josiah Covenant of Man With God: Nehemiah Covenant of Men With Men by a Monument Covenant of Men With Men by Giving Presents Covenant of Men With Men by Giving the Hand Covenant of Men With Men by Making a Feast Covenant of Men With Men by offering a Sacrifice Covenant of Men With Men by Salting Covenant of Men With Men: Breach of, Punished Covenant of Men With Men: Loosing the Shoe Covenant of Men With Men: Written and Sealed Covenant of the Ten Commandments Covenant with David and his House Covenant with Israel, at Horeb Covenant with the Israelites to Deliver Them from Egypt Covenant: Abraham and Abimelech Covenant: Binding, not Only on Those Who Make Them, But on Those Who are Represented Covenant: Jews With Each Other, to Serve God Covenant: King Zedekiah and his Subjects Covenant: Subjects With Sovereign Covenant: The Mosaic Law Called a Covenant The Covenant is a Covenant of Peace The Covenant: All Saints Interested In The Covenant: Blessings Connected With The Covenant: Caution Against Forgetting The Covenant: Christ, the Mediator of The Covenant: Christ, the Messenger of The Covenant: Christ, the Substance of The Covenant: Confirmed in Christ The Covenant: Fulfilled in Christ The Covenant: God is Ever Mindful of The Covenant: God is Faithful To The Covenant: Made With: Abraham The Covenant: Made With: David The Covenant: Made With: Isaac The Covenant: Made With: Israel The Covenant: Made With: Jacob The Covenant: Plead, in Prayer The Covenant: Punishment for Despising The Covenant: Ratified by the Blood of Christ The Covenant: Renewed Under the Gospel The Covenant: The Wicked Have No Interest In Related Terms Covenant-victim (2 Occurrences) |
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