Unveiling the Word
Understanding the original Greek words of the New Testament can shed light on the depth and nuances that may be lost in translation. The Greek word Λευίς (Leuis) is significant as it represents the name of an important biblical figure, Levi, who is known to be a tax collector and one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. This word appears in Mark 2:14, marking Levi’s call to discipleship by Jesus. The name Levi (Λευίς) connects not only to the Jewish heritage but also to the transformative narrative of the New Testament, where ordinary individuals are called to follow Christ and become His disciples.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: Λευίς (Leuis) [pronounced lay-EES].
Etymology: The word Λευίς is a transliteration of the Hebrew name לֵוִי (Lewi), meaning “joined” or “attached.” It carries a strong cultural and religious significance, as Levi is also the name of the third son of Jacob and Leah, from whom the tribe of Levi descended. This tribe is associated with the priestly duties in Israel.
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Part of Speech: Proper Noun, Masculine. Λευίς is a masculine noun used as a personal name in Greek. Since it is a proper noun, it does not follow typical declension patterns seen in other nouns.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
- Levi (Apostle of Jesus): The most notable meaning of Λευίς in the New Testament is the reference to Levi, a tax collector whom Jesus called to follow Him. Levi is traditionally believed to be the same person as Matthew, the author of the first Gospel in the New Testament.
- Levi (Tribal Name): While primarily a reference to the apostle in the New Testament, the name Levi also recalls the tribe of Levi, known for its religious and priestly roles in ancient Israel.
Exploring Similar Words
- Ματθαῖος (Matthaios) [pronounced mat-THAI-os]: Refers to Matthew, who is often identified with Levi. The name Matthew means “gift of Yahweh,” indicating a significant spiritual transformation.
- Ζακχαῖος (Zakchaios) [pronounced zak-KAI-os]: Refers to Zacchaeus, another tax collector in the New Testament. Zacchaeus’ story is similar to Levi’s in that both experienced radical change after encountering Jesus.
- Σίμων (Simōn) [pronounced SEE-mon]: Refers to Simon Peter, another apostle. While not directly related to Levi, the transformation of ordinary men like Simon into apostles parallels Levi’s story.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
As a proper noun, Λευίς does not undergo typical Greek declension. It remains unchanged across different cases in its biblical usage, making it indeclinable in nature. This usage reflects its application as a personal name without the typical modifications that come with grammatical cases in Greek.
For more information on Greek declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The lexicons highlight Λευίς as a significant proper name in the New Testament, emphasizing its importance both historically and theologically. Levi, the son of Alphaeus, is noted for his unique role as a tax collector who left his occupation to follow Jesus, marking a significant shift from a position viewed negatively in Jewish society to one of discipleship and evangelism. The name symbolizes a transformation from an outsider to a follower of Christ. Additionally, the use of Λευίς reflects the continuity of Old Testament themes, such as God’s calling and the transformation of lives through divine encounters.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
- Mark 2:14 – “As He passed by, He saw Levi [Λευίς] the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and He said to him, ‘Follow Me.’ And he arose and followed Him.”
- Luke 5:27 – “After these things, He went out and saw a tax collector named Levi [Λευίς], sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, ‘Follow Me.'”
- Mark 3:18 – “Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him.”
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Septuagint | Genesis 29:34 | “And she conceived again and bore a son and called his name Levi [Λευίς].” |
| Septuagint | Numbers 3:12 | “Behold, I have taken the Levites [Λευίς] from among the children of Israel.” |
| Septuagint | Deuteronomy 10:8 | “At that time the Lord separated the tribe of Levi [Λευίς]…” |
Noteworthy Summary
The word Λευίς (Leuis) holds profound meaning in the New Testament. As Levi, the tax collector turned apostle, his name symbolizes transformation, obedience, and discipleship. From his Old Testament roots as a tribal name to his New Testament role as an apostle, the word spans both religious heritage and spiritual renewal. Levi’s story is an enduring testament to the power of Jesus’ call and the possibility of redemption and purpose.
Did You Know?
- Fact 1: Levi is traditionally believed to be the same person as Matthew, who wrote the first Gospel.
- Fact 2: Tax collectors like Levi were often despised in Jewish society for collaborating with the Roman authorities.
- Fact 3: Levi’s calling is celebrated as an example of radical discipleship, showing how Jesus often chose unlikely candidates for His closest followers.
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