### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Leuḯ**, represented by `{{G3017}}`, is a proper name of Hebrew origin referring to **Levi**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**. The name is used to identify individuals in a lineage and to represent the entire tribe descended from the patriarch Levi.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3017}}` is used in several key contexts. It appears twice in the genealogy of Jesus, identifying two distinct ancestors named **Levi** ([[Luke 3:24]], [[Luke 3:29]]). The name is also central to the book of Hebrews, where the "sons of **Levi**" are identified as those who receive the "office of the priesthood" and are commanded by law to take tithes from the people [[Hebrews 7:5]]. Theologically, the author argues that **Levi** himself metaphorically paid tithes through his ancestor Abraham [[Hebrews 7:9]]. Finally, in Revelation, the tribe of **Levi** is listed as one of the twelve tribes of Israel from which twelve thousand are sealed [[Revelation 7:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of priesthood, tribe, and lineage associated with Levi:
* `{{G2405}}` **hierateía** (office of the priesthood): This term defines the specific function granted to the sons of Levi, establishing their role under the law [[Hebrews 7:5]].
* `{{G586}}` **apodekatóō** (to take tithes): This action is a key responsibility of the Levitical priesthood, who have a commandment to **take tithes** from their brethren [[Hebrews 7:5]].
* `{{G5443}}` **phylḗ** (tribe): This word establishes Levi's identity not just as a person but as the head of a clan, as seen in the reference to the "**tribe** of Levi" [[Revelation 7:7]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): This word is crucial for understanding the generational and covenantal identity of the priesthood, which is passed down to the "**sons** of Levi" [[Hebrews 7:5]].
* `{{G3751}}` **osphŷs** (loin): This term is used to describe procreative power and lineage, illustrating that the descendants of Levi came from the "**loins** of Abraham" [[Hebrews 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3017}}` is significant, particularly in contrasting the old and new covenants.
* **The Levitical Priesthood:** Levi represents the entire Aaronic and Levitical priestly system established under the Law. The "sons of **Levi**" are designated to hold the office of the priesthood and mediate between God and the people through their service [[Hebrews 7:5]].
* **Genealogical Headship:** The argument that **Levi** "payed tithes in Abraham" establishes a principle of representation, where the actions of an ancestor apply to his descendants. This is used to show the superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood, to whom Abraham tithed, over the Levitical one [[Hebrews 7:9]].
* **Inclusion in Redemption:** The "tribe of **Levi**" is explicitly named among those who are sealed in the end times. This signifies their continued place within the redeemed people of God, with **twelve** **thousand** from the tribe being sealed [[Revelation 7:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3017}}` functions as more than an ancestral name. It is a cornerstone for understanding the structure of Israel's worship under the law, a key figure in theological arguments about priesthood and tithing, and a representative tribe in God's prophetic plan. The use of **Leuḯ** highlights the transition from a hereditary, earthly priesthood to a higher, eternal one.
TRV