of the covenant which they had made before me] Heb. cut. as vers. 8. So that by these solemn rites, God and man seal enterchangeably either to other: and man covenanteth with God, as well as God with man. Exodus 24:8. Psalms 50:5. John 3:33. Romans 4:11. when they cut the calf in twain] See here the reason and ground of the phrase, of cutting, or cutting out a covenant, so oft here and else-where used. By this solemn rite, they did in a manner devote themselves to destruction; as confessing themselves worthy, and in way of execration (Nehem. 10. 29.) wishing, to be so cut in twain, (Matthew 24:51.) if they brake the covenant, that then they made. See somewhat the like ceremonie, Genesis 15:10; Genesis 15:17.