LEVI
1. The third son of Jacob and Leah, born in Mesopotamia; and father of three sons, and of Jochebed the mother of Moses, Genesis 29:34 Exodus 1:6-20. For his share in the treacherous massacre of the Shechemites, Genesis 1:34-31, his father at death foreboded evil to his posterity, Genesis 1:49-7; but as they afterwards stood forth on the Lord’s side, Moses was charged to bless them, Exodus 1:32-29 Deuteronomy 1:33-11. The tribe of Levi was, according to Jacob’s prediction, scattered over all Israel, having no share in the cities in the portions of other tribes. All the tithes, first fruits, and offerings, presented at the temple, as well as several parts of all the victims that were offered belonged to the tribe of Levi. See Levites.
2. The apostle Matthew was also called Levi. See Matthew.