convenant

Convenant is a less common variant spelling of covenant, a formal agreement or promise between two or more parties that imposes duties and grants rights. The standard spelling in modern English is covenant; convenant appears in older texts or in specific contexts. The term derives from Old French convenant, from Latin convenire, to come together.

In law, a covenant is a binding promise within a contract or a clause that imposes obligations. In real property, covenants can be restrictive (limiting what a landowner may do) or positive (requiring a landowner to take certain actions). Such covenants may run with the land and bind future owners, depending on jurisdiction and specific language. Enforcement typically relies on courts, and remedies may include damages, injunctions, or specific performance. Covenants can be created by deed, contract, or statute and are sometimes limited by legal doctrines such as privity of contract or changes in law.

In religious contexts, covenants describe solemn agreements between God and humans, with corresponding obligations and blessings. Notable biblical covenants include the Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, and the New Covenant in Christian theology. These covenants frame theological narratives, moral expectations, and rituals within Judaism and Christianity.

Other uses include covenant marriages in certain jurisdictions, which aim to emphasize a stronger, longer-term commitment with specific legal conditions. In international and political contexts, covenants or covenants-like instruments refer to formal treaties or agreements between states or organizations.

Overall, covenants articulate mutual commitments and the conditions under which parties may benefit or be constrained, spanning legal, religious, and social domains.