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What Does the Name Levi Mean Biblically?

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is a significant decision that parents make. The name of a child can have a significant impact on their life, and it is essential to choose a name that has a positive meaning. One name that has a significant meaning in the Bible is Levi. In this article, we will explore the biblical meaning of the name Levi, its origin, and its significance in the Bible.

The Origin of the Name Levi

The name Levi is of Hebrew origin and means 'joined' or 'attached.' In the Bible, Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah. According to Genesis 29:34, Leah named him Levi because she hoped that her husband would become attached to her after giving birth to three sons. The name Levi was also the name of the tribe of Israel that descended from him.

The Significance of the Name Levi in the Bible

The name Levi has a significant meaning in the Bible. In the Old Testament, the tribe of Levi was set apart by God to serve as priests. According to Exodus 28:1, God commanded Moses to appoint Aaron and his sons as priests to serve Him. The Levites were also responsible for the care and maintenance of the tabernacle and the temple. They were not given a portion of land like the other tribes of Israel but were given cities to live in.

The Role of Levi in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the name Levi is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew. Levi was a tax collector who was called by Jesus to be one of His disciples. In Matthew 9:9, Jesus saw Levi sitting at the tax collector's booth and said to him, 'Follow me.' Levi got up and followed Him. After this, Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and many tax collectors and sinners came to eat with them. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked Jesus' disciples why He was eating with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus replied, 'It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.' (Matthew 9:12-13)

The Symbolism of the Name Levi

The name Levi has symbolic significance in the Bible. The Levites were set apart by God to serve Him as priests, and they were responsible for the care and maintenance of the tabernacle and the temple. They were also responsible for teaching the people the law of God. In the New Testament, Levi was called by Jesus to be one of His disciples, and he left everything to follow Him. The name Levi symbolizes devotion, service, and sacrifice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name Levi has a significant meaning in the Bible. It is of Hebrew origin and means 'joined' or 'attached.' Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah, and the tribe of Levi descended from him. In the Old Testament, the Levites were set apart by God to serve as priests, and in the New Testament, Levi was called by Jesus to be one of His disciples. The name Levi symbolizes devotion, service, and sacrifice. If you are considering naming your child Levi, it is a name that has a positive meaning and a rich biblical history.