Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the depth and nuance of the Scriptures. The Greek word Λευί (Levi) is significant in biblical and historical contexts, as it is the name of an important figure in Jewish history and the foundation of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In the New Testament, the name Levi also appears in genealogies, underscoring its continued cultural and religious relevance. It appears in Luke 3:24 as part of the genealogy of Jesus, connecting the New Testament narrative to the rich heritage of the Old Testament.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: Λευί (Levi) [pronounced lay-VEE].

Etymology: The Greek word Λευί is a transliteration of the Hebrew name לֵוִי (Lewi), which is derived from the Hebrew root לָוָה (lawah), meaning “to join” or “to attach.” This root word reflects the biblical narrative where Leah, the wife of Jacob, named her third son Levi, expressing her hope that her husband would become attached to her because she had borne him three sons (Genesis 29:34).

Part of Speech: Proper Noun, Masculine. Λευί is a masculine noun used as a proper name in Greek. It does not follow declension patterns typical for common nouns, as it is primarily used in its nominative form in genealogical contexts and references to the person Levi or his descendants.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Levi (Tribal Name): The primary meaning of Λευί refers to Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah, from whom the Levites, a priestly tribe in Israel, descend. This tribe played a crucial role in religious and temple duties in the Old Testament.
2. Levi (Personal Name): In the New Testament, Λευί is also used as a personal name, appearing in genealogies like that of Jesus in Luke 3:24. It represents both a direct lineage and a continuation of a significant cultural and religious heritage.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Ιακώβ (Iakob) [pronounced ya-KOB]: The Greek form of “Jacob,” Levi’s father, serves as a direct connection to the patriarchal lineage in Israel’s history.
2. Ἰουδα (Ioudas) [pronounced ee-oo-DAS]: This word refers to “Judah,” another son of Jacob and a key figure in Israel’s tribal system, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the tribes.
3. Ααρών (Aarōn) [pronounced AH-ron]: The name Aaron, Moses’ brother and a descendant of Levi, highlights the significant priestly lineage tied to Levi, reinforcing his role in the religious and cultural heritage of Israel.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a proper noun, Λευί does not follow the typical morphological patterns of declension seen in common nouns. It is treated as indeclinable in Greek, meaning it does not change form regardless of its grammatical case. Thus, Λευί remains the same in the nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative cases when used in the New Testament texts.

For more on Greek declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word Λευί is discussed in various Greek lexicons, noting its dual significance as both a tribal name and a personal name in the Bible. Lexicons emphasize its Hebrew roots and importance in the genealogies that connect Old and New Testament narratives. The use of Λευί in genealogies, especially in Luke 3:24, highlights the continuity and fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus’ lineage. This name is a reminder of the heritage of faith that extends from the patriarchs to the New Testament era, representing both physical descent and spiritual legacy.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 3:24 – “the son of Matthat, the son of Levi [Λευί], the son of Melchi, the son of Jannai, the son of Joseph.”
2. Luke 3:29 – “the son of Joshua, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi [Λευί].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word Λευί (Levi) carries significant weight in both the Old and New Testament contexts. It is more than just a name; it is a symbol of a covenantal lineage, a priestly heritage, and a reminder of the faithfulness of God’s promises from one generation to another. In the New Testament, its appearance in genealogies connects the dots between the patriarchs and the coming of the Messiah, affirming the continuation of the divine narrative.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah and became the ancestor of the Levites, who were assigned the role of priests in Israel.
• Fact 2: The tribe of Levi did not receive a land inheritance like other tribes but was given cities among other tribes to serve in priestly duties.
• Fact 3: In the New Testament, Levi is also the name of Matthew, one of Jesus’ disciples, who was called from his role as a tax collector.