### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Lêvîy**, represented by `{{H3878}}`, is primarily known as the name **Levi**, a son of Jacob. It appears 64 times across 61 unique verses. The name itself is derived from a root meaning "attached," reflecting his mother Leah's hope that her husband would become joined to her [[Genesis 29:34]]. The term signifies not only the individual but also his descendants, the tribe of Levi.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Levi is first introduced as the third son of Jacob and Leah [[Genesis 35:23]]. He and his brother Simeon are noted for their violent retribution in Shechem [[Genesis 34:25]], an act for which Jacob later rebukes them [[Genesis 49:5]]. Despite this origin, the descendants of Levi, known as the "sons of Levi," were chosen for a special purpose. God separated the tribe of Levi to bear the ark of the covenant, to minister before Him, and to bless in His name [[Deuteronomy 10:8]]. Unlike the other tribes, Levi was given no land inheritance; instead, the LORD Himself was their inheritance ([[Deuteronomy 10:9]], [[Joshua 13:33]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and identity of the tribe of Levi:
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite or descendant of Levi): This is the direct patronymic term for a member of the tribe of Levi, often translated as "the Levites" and used to describe those set apart for sacred service [[Deuteronomy 18:1]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): The sons of Levi were the priests of Israel, entrusted with the law and leadership in worship [[Deuteronomy 31:9]].
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (to minister, serve): This verb encapsulates the primary function of the tribe of Levi, who were brought near to Aaron "that they may minister unto him" [[Numbers 3:6]].
* `{{H1288}}` **bârak** (to bless): A key responsibility of the priests from the sons of Levi was "to bless in the name of the LORD" [[Deuteronomy 21:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3878}}` is significant, representing a tribe set apart for God's service.
* **A Consecrated People:** The tribe of Levi distinguished itself through its loyalty to the LORD during the golden calf incident, when "all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him" [[Exodus 32:26]]. This act solidified their role as a tribe separated for a holy calling.
* **Divine Inheritance:** The principle that the LORD was Levi's inheritance underscores a life of complete dependence on God. They were sustained by the tithes and offerings of Israel, signifying their focus was on spiritual service rather than material possessions [[Numbers 18:21]].
* **The Covenant of Levi:** God established a specific "covenant of Levi," which defined their priestly role and relationship with Him [[Malachi 2:4]]. Scripture also records the corruption of this covenant when the priests failed in their duties [[Malachi 2:8]].
* **Prophetic Purification:** In a promise of future restoration, the LORD is depicted as a refiner who will "purify the sons of Levi" like gold and silver, enabling them to once again offer offerings in righteousness [[Malachi 3:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3878}}` evolves from the name of an individual to the designation for an entire tribe with a unique spiritual vocation. The story of Levi encompasses a journey from familial strife to divine consecration. As the tribe set apart to minister, teach, and bless, their identity is defined not by land but by their special relationship with God, making the LORD their sole inheritance and the object of their service.
TRV