Λευΐ (Leui)
Leui
Levi
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Leui, derived from the Hebrew for "joined" or "attached," appears eight times in the New Testament, primarily identifying individuals within the lineage of Jesus or the tribe itself. In Luke’s genealogy, it marks two distinct ancestors: Levi son of Melchi and Levi son of Simeon (Luke 3:24, 29). These entries help trace the human ancestry that leads back to Abraham.
Most notably, Leui identifies the tax collector called by Jesus in Mark 2:14 and Luke 5:27. This figure, often known as Matthew in parallel accounts, illustrates the theme of divine calling reaching those outside traditional religious circles. The name also surfaces in Revelation 7:7 among the sealed from the tribes of Israel, linking the personal history of the patriarch to the eschatological hope of God’s people.
Hebrews 7:5 and 9 use the name to discuss the priestly lineage, noting that Levi received tithes from Abraham. This reference underscores the theological weight of the Levitical priesthood in understanding Christ’s superior order. The consistency of the name across these varied contexts highlights its enduring significance in biblical narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Levi appears in Scripture not just as a label for ancestors, but as a marker of divine invitation and priestly service. In the Gospels, we see Jesus call a tax collector named Levi to follow Him. This moment shows that God’s grace reaches those society often overlooks or rejects. It is a reminder that no one is too far gone for a fresh start.
Later writers use this name to explain Jesus’ unique role as High Priest. By tracing the lineage back to Levi, the text highlights how Christ fulfills the old covenant’s promises while surpassing them. Whether seen in a genealogy or a vision of the end times, the name points to God’s faithful plan to gather His people together.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of Levi4×
- Levi4×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Λευὶ5×
- Λευὶν2×
- Λευὶς1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 2:14
As he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he arose and followed him.
This verse captures the direct call of Jesus to Levi, illustrating how divine grace interrupts ordinary life to invite new discipleship.
-
Luke 5:27
After these things he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax office, and said to him, “Follow me!”
Here Luke emphasizes Levi’s identity as a tax collector, highlighting the social barrier Jesus crosses to offer friendship and purpose.
-
Hebrews 7:9
We can say that through Abraham even Levi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes,
The author uses Levi’s ancestral connection to Abraham to argue that Christ’s priesthood is superior to the Levitical order.