Λευϊτικός (Leuitikos)
Leuitikos
Levitical
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective Leuitikos simply means "Levitical," describing anything related to the tribe of Levi or its religious duties. In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in Hebrews 7:11, where it qualifies the priesthood. The word serves as a direct descriptor, linking the concept of priestly service specifically to the lineage and role established for Levi’s descendants.
Its usage here highlights a theological contrast rather than just a historical label. By referring to the "Levitical" priesthood, the author sets up a comparison with the superior order of Melchizedek. The term anchors the discussion in the existing Jewish understanding of worship, showing that if perfection could have been achieved through that system, there would be no need for a different kind of priest to arise.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word Levitical points us back to the ancient system of worship established for the tribe of Levi. In Hebrews 7:11, this term anchors our understanding in a historical reality that Christians today can easily overlook. It reminds us that God worked through specific structures and roles to guide His people toward Himself.
Yet the text uses this familiar label to introduce a profound shift. The author notes that if the Levitical system had brought ultimate perfection, there would have been no need for another priest to arise. This contrast invites us to look beyond the rituals of the past to the complete and lasting work of Christ, who fulfills what the old order could only point toward.
Reflecting on this helps us appreciate the depth of God’s plan. He did not discard the past but built upon it, revealing a fuller truth in Jesus. This continuity offers comfort, showing that our faith is rooted in a long and faithful story of redemption.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Levitical1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Λευιτικῆς1×
Key Verses
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Hebrews 7:11
Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people have received the law), what further need was there for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
This verse uses the term to establish the baseline of the old covenant priesthood, setting up the necessary contrast for introducing the superior order of Melchizedek.