### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Λευΐ (Leuΐ), transliterated as Leuΐ, is a proper noun derived directly from the Hebrew name לֵוִי (Levi), Strong's `{{H3878}}`. Its etymological root in Hebrew signifies "attached" or "joined," a meaning connected to the circumstances of his birth as recounted in [[Genesis 29:34]]. In the New Testament, Λευΐ functions exclusively as a personal name, referring to specific individuals. Unlike common nouns, its semantic range is narrow, denoting identity rather than a concept or quality. Its primary function is to identify three distinct Israelites within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Λευΐ (Leuΐ) appears in the New Testament in several significant contexts, referring to three different individuals:
1. **Levi, the Son of Jacob:** This is the most prominent figure associated with the name, one of the twelve patriarchs and the progenitor of the tribe of Levi. He is mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus, affirming the historical continuity of God's covenantal plan. For instance, [[Matthew 1:2]] lists Levi as an ancestor in the lineage leading to Joseph, while [[Luke 3:30]] places him in the lineage of Mary. The tribe descended from him was uniquely consecrated for priestly service in the Old Covenant, laying the groundwork for the Levitical priesthood.
2. **Levi, the Tax Collector (also known as Matthew):** This Levi is a key figure in the Gospels, identified as a tax collector whom Jesus called to be one of His disciples. The accounts in [[Matthew 9:9]], [[Mark 2:14]], and [[Luke 5:27-29]] describe Jesus' radical act of calling a socially ostracized individual to follow Him. The narrative in Luke explicitly states, "After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. 'Follow me,' Jesus told him." This calling highlights Christ's mission to seek and save the lost, transcending societal boundaries and religious prejudices. The subsequent feast at Levi's house, attended by many tax collectors and "sinners," further underscores Jesus' inclusive ministry.
3. **Levi, an Ancestor of Jesus in Luke's Genealogy:** [[Luke 3:24]] lists a Levi as an ancestor of Jesus, distinct from Levi the son of Jacob. This Levi is identified as the son of Melchi and father of Matthat, appearing much later in the lineage, demonstrating the commonality of the name within Israelite families.
### Related Words & Concepts
The term Λευΐ (Leuΐ) is intrinsically linked to its Hebrew progenitor, `{{H3878}}` (Levi). Beyond the proper noun, other Greek words in the New Testament are directly related to the concept of the Levites and their service:
* `{{G3018}}` (Λευϊτικός - Leuïtikos): This adjective means "Levitical" and refers to matters pertaining to the Levites, particularly their priestly duties and legal regulations. It is used in passages like [[Luke 10:32]] (referring to a Levite in the parable of the Good Samaritan) and [[Hebrews 7:11]] (discussing the "Levitical priesthood").
* `{{G3019}}` (Λευΐτης - Leuïtes): This noun means "Levite" and refers to a member of the tribe of Levi, particularly those who served in the temple or tabernacle. Examples include [[John 1:19]] and [[Acts 4:36]].
* `{{G3020}}` (Λευΐς - Leuïs): This is an alternate spelling or form of the name Levi, sometimes used in ancient texts.
The concepts associated with Λευΐ extend to the Old Covenant priesthood, tribal identity, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the radical nature of Christ's call to discipleship.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Λευΐ (Leuΐ) is multifaceted, primarily through the two most prominent figures bearing the name:
1. **Levi, Son of Jacob and the Levitical Priesthood:** As the progenitor of the priestly tribe, Levi represents the Old Covenant system of worship and atonement. The Levitical priesthood, established under the Mosaic Law, served as a divine institution to mediate between God and Israel. However, the New Testament, particularly the book of Hebrews, presents this priesthood as preparatory and imperfect, unable to achieve perfect atonement ([[Hebrews 7:11-19]], [[Hebrews 10:1-4]]). The temporary nature and limitations of the Levitical system ultimately point to the superior, eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, who, "not according to a legal requirement concerning bodily descent but by the power of an indestructible life" ([[Hebrews 7:16]]), fulfills and supersedes the Levitical order. Thus, Levi's legacy underscores the typological nature of the Old Covenant, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest.
2. **Levi (Matthew), the Tax Collector:** The calling of Levi (Matthew) by Jesus carries profound theological weight. It demonstrates Christ's sovereign authority to call anyone into His service, regardless of their social standing, past profession, or perceived sinfulness. A tax collector was despised by Jewish society, often seen as a traitor and a sinner. Jesus' willingness to associate with and call such an individual illustrates His mission of grace and His inclusive kingdom, where the "sick" are those who need a physician ([[Mark 2:17]]). This event powerfully articulates the Gospel message: salvation is for sinners, and God's grace transforms lives, enabling those formerly alienated to become devoted followers and even apostles. It challenges human-made distinctions and highlights the divine initiative in redemption.
### Summary
The Greek word Λευΐ (Leuΐ), derived from the Hebrew `{{H3878}}`, functions as a proper noun in the New Testament, identifying three distinct individuals named Levi. Most significantly, it refers to Levi, the son of Jacob, progenitor of the priestly tribe, whose legacy points to the preparatory nature of the Old Covenant Levitical priesthood and its fulfillment in Christ's superior high priesthood. Secondly, it identifies Levi, the tax collector, also known as Matthew, whose radical calling by Jesus exemplifies God's transformative grace and the inclusive nature of His kingdom, inviting even the socially marginalized and perceived "sinners" into discipleship. The name Λευΐ, therefore, bridges Old Testament covenantal structures with New Testament fulfillment, highlighting both the divine plan for salvation and the boundless scope of Christ's redemptive work.
TRV