A symbol stands for an idea. The Statue of Liberty stands in Upper New York Bay, a universal symbol of freedom. Originally conceived as an emblem of the friendship between the people of France and the U.S. and a sign of their mutual desire for liberty, over the years the Statue has become much more.
The Hebrew word for Levite (lew) indicates a descendant of Levi, the son of Jacob and Leah ( Gen 29:34 ). There were three family clans within the tribe of LeviGershon, Kohath, and Meraribut it was only Kohath who supplied the Aaronic priests.
The Levites' set apart status is demonstrated by their taking the place of the firstborn, who by right belonged to God ( Num 3:41 ). Another indication of Levi's distinction is found in Numbers 1:47-54, where God instructs Moses not to number the Levites with the other tribes.