לֵוִי
Levi / Levi
“Joined/attached”
Levi (לֵוִי, Levi) is a Hebrew boy's name meaning “joined/attached,” pronounced “le-VI.” From the Hebrew verb לָוָה (lavah) meaning 'to join, to be attached, to accompany.' Leah's naming reflects her hope that bearing a third son would finally bond Jacob's heart to hers (Genesis 29:34).
| Hebrew | לֵוִי |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Levi |
| English Name | Levi |
| Meaning | Joined/attached |
| Pronunciation | le-VI |
| Gender | Boy |
| Category | Male Biblical Names |
| Variants | Levy, Lévi, Lewi |
| Key Scripture | Genesis 29:34 |
Levi's name was born from a mother's longing to be loved. Leah, the 'unwanted' wife of Jacob who had been tricked into marriage, named her third son Levi, saying 'Now at last my husband will become attached to me' (Genesis 3:34). The name means 'joined' or 'attached,' and while it began as a plea for human affection, it became a prophecy of something far greater — the tribe of Levi was joined to God Himself as His priestly servants, set apart from the other tribes to carry the Ark, maintain the Tabernacle, and lead Israel in worship. What started as a wife's heartache became a nation's holy calling.
Key Scripture: Genesis 29:34
“Again she conceived, and when she gave birth to a son she said, 'Now at last my husband will become attached to me, because I have borne him three sons.' So he was named Levi.”
What Does Levi Mean in Hebrew?
From the root ל-ו-ה (lamed-vav-heh) meaning 'to join, attach, accompany.' The name לֵוִי (Levi) is derived from Leah's words: 'this time my husband will be joined (yillaveh) to me.' The root also gives us 'livyah' (accompaniment/escort) and is related to 'halvayah' (funeral escort/accompaniment).
Levi in the Bible
Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah. While his early legacy included violence (the massacre at Shechem, Genesis 34), his tribe was transformed into Israel's priestly class. The Levites were set apart by God to serve in the Tabernacle and Temple, carrying the Ark, teaching Torah, and leading worship. Moses and Aaron were both Levites.
Cultural Context & Modern Usage
In Judaism, Levites (descendants of Levi) have a distinct identity: they receive the second Torah honor in synagogue (after Kohanim), and historically served as singers and musicians in the Temple. The surname Levy/Levi/Levine typically indicates Levitical descent. Levi Strauss, the founder of the iconic jeans company, was a German-Jewish immigrant named after this biblical patriarch.
Levi has surged dramatically in popularity, entering the top 10 boys' names in the United States in recent years. Its strong, short sound and fashionable feel have made it a modern favorite. The brand Levi's (founded by Levi Strauss) has also given the name worldwide recognition outside religious contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Levi
What does Levi mean in Hebrew?
Levi (לֵוִי, Levi) means “Joined/attached” in Hebrew. From the Hebrew verb לָוָה (lavah) meaning 'to join, to be attached, to accompany.' Leah's naming reflects her hope that bearing a third son would finally bond Jacob's heart to hers (Genesis 29:34).
How do you pronounce Levi in Hebrew?
The Hebrew pronunciation of Levi is “le-VI.” The name is written לֵוִי in Hebrew script.
What does Levi mean in Hebrew?
Levi (לֵוִי) means 'joined' or 'attached' in Hebrew, from the root ל-ו-ה (lavah). Leah named her third son Levi hoping it would bond Jacob's heart to her: 'Now at last my husband will become attached to me' (Genesis 29:34). The name took on deeper meaning when the tribe of Levi was 'joined' to God's service as the priestly tribe.
What is the difference between Levites and Kohanim?
All Kohanim (priests) are Levites, but not all Levites are Kohanim. Kohanim are specifically descendants of Aaron who performed sacrificial rituals and entered the Holy of Holies. Other Levites served in supporting roles: maintaining the Tabernacle/Temple, singing, teaching Torah, and guarding the sacred precincts. Both groups are descendants of Levi.
Why is Levi such a popular name right now?
Levi has surged into the top 10 baby names due to its short, strong sound, its fashionable two-syllable structure, and its deep biblical heritage. The cultural familiarity of the Levi's brand adds secular recognition. It appeals to parents seeking a name that is both ancient and modern, meaningful yet accessible.
Sources & Further Study
Related Hebrew Words
More Male Biblical Names
Explore other names in the Male Biblical Names collection
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