Λευΐς

Levi

Definition

Λευΐς (Levi) is a proper name referring to a specific individual in the New Testament: Levi, the son of Alphaeus, who was a tax collector (publican) called by Jesus to be a disciple. This is the same person identified as the apostle Matthew in the Gospel accounts (compare Mark 2:14 with Matthew 9:9). The name also evokes the Old Testament tribe of Levi, from which the Jewish priesthood descended, adding a layer of symbolic contrast between his former despised occupation and his new calling. All three New Testament occurrences (Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27, 5:29) refer to this same person, with no other distinct meanings applied.

Biblical Usage

The name Λευΐς is used exclusively in the Gospels of Mark and Luke to identify the tax collector called by Jesus. The usage pattern is narrative, appearing in the accounts of his calling (Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27) and the subsequent feast he hosted for Jesus (Luke 5:29). It is not used in theological discourse but to identify a key individual within the story of Jesus's ministry to outcasts.

Etymology

Λευΐς is a direct Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name לֵוִי (Levi). It is not derived from a Greek root but is a borrowed name. In Hebrew, the name is traditionally understood to mean 'attached' or 'joined,' as seen in Genesis 29:34, where Leah names her son Levi, saying, 'Now this time my husband will be attached to me.'

Semantic Range

The figure of Levi is theologically significant as a powerful example of Jesus's grace and mission to call sinners (Mark 2:17). His identity as a tax collector (a collaborator with Rome and often dishonest) contrasts sharply with the holiness associated with his namesake tribe, highlighting that the new covenant community is based on repentance and faith, not ethnic or ritual pedigree. Understanding that Levi is Matthew enriches reading by connecting the call narrative to the Gospel author himself.

In first-century Jewish culture, tax collectors (publicans) like Levi were widely despised as traitors and sinners for working for the Roman occupiers and frequently extorting extra money. His given name, Levi, which was associated with the priestly tribe, created an ironic tension with his despised profession, making Jesus's call to him especially shocking and counter-cultural.

Ματθαῖος (Matthaios, G3156) — The Greek name for the apostle Matthew, referring to the same person as Levi.

Word Details

Scripture References