The sigil of House Levi is a tribute to the Israelite tribe of priesthood. Even to this day there are many children of House Levi among us--you can usually spot it in the form of last names like Cohen or Katz (indicating an individual specifically descended from the biblical Aaron, brother of Moses, and therefore of priestly lineage), and names like Levy or Levine (members of the same tribe, though not belonging specifically to the priestly caste). These are just a few examples. In our days, being a Levi or Kohein still comes with certain ceremonial honors and added religious responsibilities. In ancient times, the Tribe of Levi were guardians of the Ark of the Covenant, and later, the Holy Temple in Jerusalem!
Our House Levi design incorporates traditional Jewish sources with Maccabee Apparel's signature flair and a dash of artistic influence from the popular HBO series Game of Thrones. The emblem includes the choshen hamishpat, the Breastplate of Judgment worn by the High Priest, on a field of red, white, and black, as the tribe's flag is described in the Midrash Rabba. The crossed swords were our own addition, alluding to both positive and negative aspects the history of this great house. After Levi (the progenitor of the tribe) and his brother Simon massacred the entire Canaanite city of Shechem to avenge their sister, who had been abducted and raped by the local prince, the patriarch Jacob cursed their anger and ferocity. On the other hand, when some of the nation fell into depraved idolatry, it was House Levi that answered the call to arms to right that wrong. Ever zealous, sometimes controversial, the sons of Levi are men of action, the warrior-priests of Israel.
The Hebrew motto we've created for House Levi is "Kedoshim," which would normally be rendered in English as "Holy Ones." The original meaning of kadosh is often misunderstood as "better" or "more important." In fact, "holy" in Judaism means "designated for a specific sacred purpose." And this is the Tribe of Levi. While not inherently superior to their fellow Jews, they were set aside by the Creator to care for His abode on earth, to fill it with music and attend to the sacrificial offerings therein. May it be so again, speedily and in our days.
Product specifications:
.: For indoor or outdoor use
.: Three sizes to choose from
.: Thin (0.03" (0.8 mm)) and lightweight
.: Black backing