### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Λευΐς (Leuΐs), Strong's number `{{G3018}}`, is a proper noun, serving as a transliteration of the Hebrew name Levi (לֵוִי, `{{H3878}}`). While the more common Greek form of Levi is Λευΐ (`{{G3017}}`), `{{G3018}}` appears as a specific variant used for an individual in the New Testament. The base definition indicates it refers to "Lewis (i.e., Levi), a Christian." The Hebrew root of Levi (לָוָה, lavah) means "to join" or "to be attached," though this etymological meaning is not directly applied to the New Testament figure but rather to the tribal progenitor. In the New Testament, Λευΐς designates a specific person, a tax collector called by Jesus to be a disciple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Λευΐς (`{{G3018}}`) occurs only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* [[Luke 5:27]]: "After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. 'Follow me,' Jesus said to him."
This singular occurrence identifies the individual whom Jesus calls to discipleship. This Levi is widely understood to be the same person as Matthew (Μαθθαῖος, `{{G3156}}`), the apostle and evangelist, as indicated by the parallel accounts in [[Matthew 9:9]] where the tax collector is named Matthew, and [[Mark 2:14]] where he is named Levi, son of Alphaeus. The context of [[Luke 5:27]] is crucial: Jesus calls a tax collector, a profession generally despised by Jewish society due to their collaboration with Roman authorities and reputation for extortion. This act of calling someone from such a marginalized and disreputable background highlights Jesus' inclusive ministry and His mission to seek and save the lost. Levi's immediate and radical response—leaving everything to follow Jesus ([[Luke 5:28]])—demonstrates profound faith and obedience. The subsequent feast Levi holds for Jesus and other tax collectors and "sinners" ([[Luke 5:29]]) further underscores his transformation and desire to share his new fellowship with others.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Hebrew name Levi (לֵוִי, `{{H3878}}`), which is the source of the Greek transliteration. This name is most famously associated with Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah, who became the progenitor of the priestly tribe of Levi in the Old Testament. The more common Greek form of this name is Λευΐ (`{{G3017}}`), which is used for the Old Testament patriarch and the tribe in the New Testament (e.g., [[Hebrews 7:5]], [[Revelation 7:7]]).
Crucially, Λευΐς (`{{G3018}}`) is directly related to Μαθθαῖος (Matthew, `{{G3156}}`). The identification of Levi as Matthew in the Gospel tradition signifies a change of name or a dual name, common in that period. This connection links the narrative of Levi's calling to the broader apostolic witness.
Concepts related to Λευΐς's story include:
* **Discipleship:** The immediate and radical obedience to Jesus' call.
* **Repentance and Transformation:** The turning away from a life of sin (as perceived by society) to follow Christ.
* **Inclusion of Outcasts:** Jesus' willingness to associate with and call those marginalized by society.
* **Divine Calling:** The sovereign initiative of God in drawing individuals to Himself.
### Theological Significance
The calling of Levi, identified by the specific Greek form Λευΐς (`{{G3018}}`), carries profound theological weight. It serves as a vivid illustration of Jesus' core mission, as articulated in [[Luke 5:31-32]]: "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." By calling a tax collector, Jesus deliberately challenged the prevailing religious and social norms that excluded "sinners." This act demonstrated that God's grace extends to all, regardless of their past or social standing.
Levi's immediate response to Jesus' simple command, "Follow me," exemplifies the nature of true discipleship: radical abandonment of one's former life and unreserved commitment to Christ. His subsequent act of hosting a feast for Jesus and other tax collectors and "sinners" highlights the joy and fellowship that accompany conversion, as well as the evangelistic impulse to share the good news with those in one's former circles. The inclusion of Levi/Matthew among the twelve apostles underscores the transformative power of Christ's call, enabling a formerly despised individual to become a foundational witness to the Gospel. The story of Levi is a powerful testimony to God's redemptive love and His ability to transform lives for His glory.
### Summary
Λευΐς (`{{G3018}}`) is the specific Greek form of the name Levi used in [[Luke 5:27]] to identify the tax collector whom Jesus called to be a disciple. This individual is widely recognized as Matthew, the apostle and evangelist. The singular occurrence of this term highlights a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, demonstrating His radical inclusion of social outcasts and "sinners." Levi's immediate and complete abandonment of his former life to follow Jesus exemplifies true discipleship and the transformative power of the divine call. Theologically, the calling of Λευΐς underscores Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost, challenging societal norms and extending grace to all who respond in faith.
TRV