Covenanter vs. Covenantor — What's the Difference?

Covenanters were specifically associated with the Scottish Presbyterian movement during the 17th century, which involved signing agreements rejecting any interference by the monarchy in church affairs. Whereas, a covenantor is a broader term that applies to any individual or party who enters into a formal agreement or covenant, which could be religious or secular in nature.

The term Covenanter is historically significant, particularly in Scotland, as it denotes those who were part of a religious and political faction that fought for church independence and Presbyterianism. On the other hand, covenantor is used in various legal and formal contexts to describe a person or entity that commits to stipulations set forth in a covenant, such as in property deeds or business contracts.

Covenanters are often noted for their role in the British Civil Wars, standing against royal and episcopal control. Whereas covenantors can be involved in any kind of binding agreement, making the term applicable in a wide range of scenarios beyond historical or religious contexts.

While Covenanters were part of a collective movement with specific theological and political ideologies, a covenantor might not necessarily share such a collective identity or purpose, focusing instead on the terms of the specific covenant they are entering.

Covenanters are particularly remembered for their struggles and sacrifices, including martyrdom, in the pursuit of their religious freedom. In contrast, a covenantor's involvement in making a covenant does not imply any particular risk or sacrifice but is merely a formal part of entering into an agreement.