ase
which means _covenant_ is omitted, the meaning of the other is most
manifestly the same as that of the whole.[146]

The bisection of the victim symbolized Christ slain and affording access
to God through himself. The act pointed out precisely what was
represented by the rending of the vail of the temple, when Jesus
suffered on the cross. Both signified his death, and the opening up
thereby of a way of access to God. The act of passing between the parts
of the sacrifice was an emblem of the exercise of holding communion with
God, as made known in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself. As
when the vail was rent the most holy place was no longer concealed, but
might be approached with safety; so when Jesus suffered there was
presented the reality of that provision for communion with God, which
was typified by the cutting of the calf in twain and passing between the
parts thereof. And the believing Covenanter employed in performing that
exercise enjoyed substantially the blessedness which is in reserve for
those who, in contemplation of the exercise of renewing their vows to
God, are enabled with an apostle to say,--"Having therefore, brethren,
boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and
living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the vail, that is
to say, his flesh; and having an high priest over the house of God; let
us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our
hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
pure water;" and being strengthened with Divine grace, after engaging in
it, he would feel disposed to do as these in similar circumstances in
ages long future urged:--"Let us hold fast the _profession_ of our faith
without wavering (for he is faithful that promised.)"[147]

The act of swearing by the name of God was wont to be symbolized by the
offering of sacrifice. It has been shown that the number _seven_ was an
emblem of the oath. One of the things, therefore, denoted by the
offering of seven sacrifices was the swearing of it. Once, and again and
again, did Balak at Balaam's suggestion build seven altars, and offer a
bullock and a ram on every altar.[148] And whether we believe the
religious homage presented on each occasion to have been in ignorance
addressed to the true God, or to some idol, there is reason to conclude
that the injunction of the false prophet was suggested by the practice
of the people of God, and that