The covenant refers to some kind of an agreement made between David and the representatives (elders) of the tribes. This contract was made before the Lord, meaning that it was a formal contract and likely involved ratification by members of the priesthood.1 The covenant would have stipulated the rights and obligations of both parties toward one another.2
3 Ainsi tous les anciens d'Israël vinrent auprès du roi à Hébron, et le roi David fit alliance avec eux à Hébron, devant l'Eternel. Ils oignirent David pour roi sur Israël.