* "made by bride and groom" - This tells us the covenant is something related to the marriage ceremony.
* "not to be taken lightly" - This tells us the covenant is something serious and important.
Considering these clues, here are some possible synonyms for "covenant":
* Promise: This is a good synonym because it implies a serious commitment, especially within a marriage.
* Agreement: This is also suitable because it implies a mutual understanding and commitment between two parties.
* Contract: While a little less romantic, it still emphasizes the binding nature of the commitment.
Ultimately, the best synonym depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.