Who Was Levi in the Bible – Discover the life and significance of Levi. Dive deep into his historical context, lessons we can draw from his story, and his importance in Christianity.
Table of Contents
Who Was Levi in the Bible? 🤔
The story of Levi is nestled within the pages of the Old Testament, offering readers an insight into his lineage, his life, and his significance in religious history.
Who Was Levi in the Bible?
Levi was one of the twelve sons of Jacob and Leah, making him a foundational figure in the lineage of the Israelites. He is best known as the patriarch of the Levites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Here are some key aspects of Levi’s life and legacy:
- Brotherhood and Revenge: Levi, alongside his brother Simeon, is notably remembered for avenging their sister Dinah’s dishonor by orchestrating a massacre of the men of Shechem. Their actions, driven by a sense of family honor, were later criticized by their father Jacob for bringing potential danger upon their clan.
- The Levitical Tribe: Levi’s descendants, known as the Levites, held a unique and sacred role among the Israelite tribes. They were designated as priests, caretakers of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple in Jerusalem. Unlike other tribes, the Levites did not receive a contiguous portion of the Promised Land; instead, they were given specific cities scattered throughout the territories of the other tribes.
- Covenant and Service: Due to the Levites’ zealous commitment to God, especially demonstrated when they stood by Moses during the Golden Calf incident at Mount Sinai, they were chosen to serve in the Tabernacle. Their faithfulness resulted in a special covenant, setting them apart for religious duties.
- Prominent Figures: Many significant biblical figures, including Moses, Aaron, and the prophet Samuel, hailed from Levi’s lineage. These Levites played pivotal roles in shaping the religious and cultural landscape of the Israelites.
- Lasting Legacy: The Levitical codes, a set of religious laws and guidelines, have influenced Jewish liturgical and ritual practices for centuries. Additionally, the Levites’ role as temple servants and religious leaders solidified their lasting impact on Jewish religious tradition.
In essence, Levi’s legacy, both as a son of Jacob and as the forefather of the Levites, intertwines with the very fabric of Israelite history and religious tradition. His descendants’ commitment to faith, worship, and service has left an indelible mark on the biblical narrative and Jewish heritage.
What was Levi’s Lineage? 🌳
Levi was one of the twelve sons of Jacob and Leah. He was the third son and played pivotal roles throughout various biblical narratives. Levi’s descendants, known as Levites, became the priestly class of Israelites, setting the stage for a lineage known for its spiritual leadership.
Table: The Family History of Levi – God’s Priest
| Family Member | Relation to Levi | Description/Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Jacob (Israel) | Father | Jacob, also named Israel, is the patriarch of the twelve tribes of Israel. Levi was born to Jacob as a result of his marriage to Leah. |
| Leah | Mother | Leah was Jacob’s first wife and bore him six sons, including Levi. She played a significant role in establishing the twelve tribes of Israel. |
| Simeon, Reuben, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun | Brothers (from Leah) | These were Levi’s full brothers, all sons of Leah and Jacob. Together with Levi, they form six of the twelve tribes of Israel. |
| Joseph, Benjamin | Half-Brothers (from Rachel) | Joseph and Benjamin were born to Jacob’s other wife, Rachel. Joseph’s story is especially prominent, detailing his journey from being sold into slavery to becoming a key figure in Egypt. |
| Dan, Naphtali | Half-Brothers (from Bilhah) | These brothers were sons of Jacob and Rachel’s maidservant, Bilhah. |
| Gad, Asher | Half-Brothers (from Zilpah) | Gad and Asher were sons of Jacob and Leah’s maidservant, Zilpah. |
| Kohath | Son | Kohath was one of Levi’s three sons. The Kohathites, his descendants, had specific duties in the Tabernacle, including the care of the most sacred objects. |
| Merari | Son | Merari was another of Levi’s sons. The Merarites, his descendants, were responsible for the frames, pillars, bases, and other structural components of the Tabernacle. |
| Gershon | Son | Gershon was the third son of Levi. The Gershonites, his descendants, had responsibilities related to the fabrics and coverings of the Tabernacle. |
| Moses, Aaron, Miriam | Grandchildren (Children of Amram, a descendant of Kohath) | Moses led the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, Aaron became the first High Priest, and Miriam was a prophetess and leader. This trio played pivotal roles in the Exodus narrative and Israelite history. |
Levi’s family history intertwines deeply with the religious, cultural, and historical fabric of the Israelites. The Levitical lineage, with its distinguished roles and responsibilities, has significantly impacted the religious and ritualistic practices of the Jewish tradition.
Historical Timeline of Levi’s Time 🕰
Levi lived during a period of transition for the Israelites. Born in Canaan, he witnessed the move to Egypt due to famine, experiencing firsthand the complexities of life amidst shifting cultures and environments.
Historical Timeline: Levi’s Time, World, and the Children of Israel
| Year/Time Range | Event/Development | Description/Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Early Life of Patriarchs | Birth of Abraham | Abraham, originally Abram, is born in Ur of the Chaldeans. He later forms a covenant with God, laying the foundation for the Hebrew nation. |
| Isaac and Jacob’s Birth | Abraham’s son Isaac is born, followed by the birth of Isaac’s son Jacob, later named Israel, who becomes the father of the twelve tribes, including Levi. | |
| Levi’s Early Life | Jacob’s Marriage to Leah | Jacob marries Leah, and together they have several children, including Levi, the third son. |
| Sibling Rivalries and Dynamics | The complex relationships among Jacob’s twelve sons, especially between Joseph and his brothers, set the stage for the family’s move to Egypt. | |
| Migration to Egypt | Joseph’s Rise to Power | Due to a series of events, including being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph rises to a position of power in Egypt and saves the region from famine. |
| Jacob’s Family Moves to Egypt | As famine strikes Canaan, Jacob and his family relocate to Egypt, where Joseph provides for them. This marks the beginning of the Israelites’ presence in Egypt. | |
| Life in Egypt | Israelites Multiply | Over time, the descendants of Jacob, including the Levites, grow in number and become numerous in Egypt. |
| Pharaoh’s Oppression | As the Israelites multiply, the new Pharaoh, feeling threatened, subjects them to slavery and harsh labor. | |
| Exodus Era | Moses’ Birth and Early Life | Born to Amram and Jochebed, descendants of Levi, Moses is raised in Pharaoh’s palace but later flees Egypt after killing an Egyptian. |
| Moses’ Divine Call and Plagues | After encountering God in a burning bush, Moses returns to Egypt to lead the Israelites to freedom. This results in a series of plagues inflicted upon Egypt. | |
| Exodus from Egypt | Following the final plague, Pharaoh releases the Israelites, and they begin their journey out of Egypt, marking the Exodus. | |
| Sinai and Covenant | Receiving the Ten Commandments | At Mount Sinai, Moses receives the Ten Commandments and other laws, forming a covenant between God and the Israelites. |
| Establishment of Priesthood | The Levites, particularly the descendants of Aaron, are entrusted with religious duties, establishing the Levitical priesthood. |
Levi’s life and legacy are deeply intertwined with pivotal events in the early history of the Israelites. From the familial dynamics of Jacob’s children to the establishment of the Levitical priesthood, Levi’s lineage played a central role in shaping the spiritual and historical journey of the Children of Israel.
What Does Levi Mean – English, Hebrew, Greek? 📖
The name “Levi” is of Hebrew origin, meaning “attached” or “joined.” In the context of his birth, Leah hoped that with his arrival, Jacob would become more attached to her.
What Do We Know About Levi? 🧐
Table: What Do We Know About Levi?
| Aspect | Description | Significance in the Biblical Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| Parentage | Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah. | As one of the twelve sons of Jacob, Levi became the patriarch of one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. |
| Brothers | Levi’s full brothers were Reuben, Simeon, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. | Levi and his brothers, especially Simeon, shared a close bond, often acting in unison in various biblical episodes, like the revenge on Shechem. |
| Shechem Incident | Levi and Simeon avenged the violation of their sister Dinah by killing the men of Shechem. | This event showed Levi’s fierce protective nature towards his family, but also led to criticism from Jacob for their rash actions. |
| Descendants – The Levites | Levi’s descendants, known as the Levites, did not inherit land like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities throughout Israel and had religious duties. | The Levites held a unique place among the tribes due to their priestly roles, a reflection of their set-apart status for God’s service. |
| Moses and Aaron | Two of Levi’s most notable descendants were Moses and Aaron. | Through Moses and Aaron, the Levites were further solidified in their priestly roles, especially with Aaron and his descendants serving as High Priests. |
| Blessing and Curse | In Jacob’s blessings to his sons, Levi and Simeon received criticism for their anger and violent actions in Shechem. | While it was a rebuke, the Levites’ later dedication to God during the Golden Calf incident redeemed their status, showcasing the possibility of transformation and redemption. |
| Religious Role | The Levites were entrusted with the care of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. | Their role as caretakers of holy places and performers of religious rites highlighted their unique covenant with God and their sacred duties. |
| Death and Burial | The Bible does not provide detailed accounts of Levi’s death. However, it is believed he lived 137 years. | The lack of details about Levi’s personal life contrasts with the profound and lasting legacy of his descendants. |
Levi’s life, while not as extensively detailed in the Bible as some other figures, played a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual trajectory of the Israelites. Through his lineage and the unique responsibilities of the Levites, his influence continues to resonate in the biblical narrative and Jewish religious practices.
Major Moments in the Life of Levi 🌟
Among the defining moments in Levi’s life was his role in avenging his sister, Dinah. Together with his brother Simeon, they executed a cunning plan against Shechem. This act, however, was met with disapproval from Jacob.
Table: Major Moments in the Life of Levi
| Major Moment | Description | Significance in Levi’s Life |
|---|---|---|
| Birth | Levi was born as the third son to Jacob and Leah in Paddan Aram. | His birth solidified Leah’s position as Jacob’s wife, providing her with multiple sons, which was of utmost importance in their culture. |
| Revenge on Shechem | After their sister Dinah was violated by Shechem, the city’s prince, Levi and his brother Simeon devised a plan. They convinced the men of the city to circumcise themselves, and while they were recovering, Levi and Simeon killed them all. | This violent act showcased Levi’s protective nature and loyalty to family. However, it also drew criticism from his father Jacob for its rashness and potential repercussions. |
| Settling in Egypt | Levi and his family were among the 70 Israelites who migrated to Egypt during the time of Joseph to escape famine. | This migration marked the beginning of the Israelites’ time in Egypt, which would last several centuries and culminate in their Exodus. |
| Jacob’s Blessing and Prophecy | Before his death, Jacob bestowed blessings (and in some cases, prophecies) upon his sons. For Simeon and Levi, Jacob criticized their anger and their actions in Shechem. | Though it was a rebuke, this moment was pivotal, as it foreshadowed the Levites’ unique role and destiny among the tribes of Israel. |
| Death in Egypt | Levi lived for 137 years, and he died in Egypt. He was one of the last of Jacob’s sons to die in Egypt. | While the Bible doesn’t detail his death extensively, it marks the end of Levi’s personal journey but is just the beginning of the significant legacy of his descendants. |
| Levites’ Role in the Golden Calf Incident | While this event occurred after Levi’s death, it was a defining moment for the Levites. When Moses called for those loyal to God to come to him after the Israelites worshiped the Golden Calf, only the Levites responded. | This pivotal act of loyalty and dedication to God further established the Levites’ unique religious role and responsibilities among the tribes of Israel. |
Levi’s life, punctuated by moments of fierce loyalty, protective rage, and foundational legacy, played a crucial role in the early narrative of the Children of Israel. Though his personal journey had its share of challenges, the lasting legacy of his descendants, the Levites, stands as a testament to his significance in biblical history.
Levi’s Personal History 📔
Levi’s journey was one marked by both faith and folly. While he stood alongside his brothers during difficult times, he also had moments of rash decisions. Yet, like all of us, Levi was a complex figure trying to navigate his faith and his humanity.
Table: Personal Life and Traits of Levi
| Aspect of Levi’s Life | Description | Significance and Insights into Levi’s Character |
|---|---|---|
| Position in Family | Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah. | Being among the elder brothers, Levi probably shouldered responsibilities and had a say in family decisions. This position might have influenced his protective nature. |
| Protective Nature | Levi, alongside Simeon, took vengeance on the men of Shechem to avenge their sister Dinah. | This act showcases Levi’s fierce loyalty and protective instincts towards his family, even if it meant resorting to violence. |
| Relationship with Siblings | Levi was notably close with Simeon, often acting in tandem with him, as seen in the Shechem incident. | Their shared actions highlight a deep bond and mutual understanding between the two. It also reflects their shared values and perspectives on family honor. |
| Jacob’s Rebuke | Jacob criticized Levi and Simeon for their violence in Shechem, fearing retaliation from neighboring tribes. | This rebuke might have impacted Levi deeply, making him reflect upon his impulsive actions and their consequences for the larger clan. |
| Legacy as a Patriarch | Levi’s descendants, the Levites, held a unique role among the Israelite tribes, dedicated to religious duties. | Levi’s legacy reflects his importance in the spiritual framework of the Israelites. His life, though marked by some rash decisions, ultimately paved the way for a lineage of religious dedication. |
| Traits and Characteristics | Levi demonstrated leadership, loyalty, impulsiveness, protectiveness, and a sense of justice (though it could be skewed by emotions). | These traits give us a picture of a complex individual who deeply cared for his family’s honor and well-being, even if it meant making tough or controversial decisions. |
While many details of Levi’s personal life remain unelaborated in the Bible, the events and narratives associated with him provide a glimpse into his character. He emerges as a figure defined by loyalty, leadership, and a fervent sense of family honor, shaping not only his life but also the destiny of his descendants.
What the Story of Levi Means for Us 💡
Levi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of forgiveness and redemption. Despite his flaws, he played a significant role in the spiritual foundation of Israel, teaching us that our past does not dictate our destiny.
What Was Levi’s Mission? ⛪
Levi, and subsequently his lineage, was entrusted with the spiritual care of Israel. The Levites served in the Tabernacle, maintaining its sanctity and performing rituals.
Table: What Was Levi’s Mission and How He Fared With It?
| Aspect of Levi’s Mission | Description | How Levi Fared With It |
|---|---|---|
| Uphold Family Honor | Protect and uphold the honor and integrity of Jacob’s family. | Levi demonstrated a fervent commitment to this mission when he avenged Dinah’s dishonor. However, his violent methods were questionable and drew criticism from Jacob. |
| Patriarchal Role | As one of Jacob’s twelve sons, Levi had a role in shaping the legacy of the Children of Israel. | Levi’s descendants, the Levites, became one of the Twelve Tribes, playing a unique religious role among the Israelites. This underscores Levi’s success in ensuring a lasting legacy. |
| Dedication to God | Even if not explicitly stated, as a patriarch, Levi’s life was meant to align with divine purposes, setting a precedent for his descendants. | The Levites’ dedication, especially during events like the Golden Calf incident, hints at a strong foundation of faith and commitment that might have its roots in Levi’s teachings or values. |
| Leadership Among Siblings | As one of the elder sons of Jacob, Levi had an implicit responsibility to guide and protect his younger siblings. | While we see glimpses of leadership, especially in his actions with Simeon, some of his decisions, driven by emotion, might not have been in the best interest of the larger family. |
| Lay the Groundwork for Levitical Duties | While it was not a mission given directly to Levi, his life’s trajectory set the stage for the Levites’ religious roles. | The prominence and dedication of the Levitical tribe in religious affairs can be seen as a testament to Levi’s foundational influence, even if indirectly. |
Levi’s mission, while not explicitly laid out like the mandates given to prophets in later biblical narratives, can be inferred from his life events and the trajectory of his lineage. He emerges as a figure deeply committed to family honor and legacy, with his life choices casting ripples that shaped the course of the Levitical tribe for generations.
What Were Levi’s Major Prophecies? 🎙
While Levi himself wasn’t known for prophecies, Jacob’s blessings over his sons hinted at the Levites’ future role in spiritual leadership.
What Archaeology Has Been Discovered Concerning Levi? 🏺
While specific artifacts directly linked to Levi remain elusive, archaeological findings have provided context to the Levites’ roles in biblical times.
Table: Archaeological Discoveries Concerning Levi
| Artifact/Discovery | Description | Significance/Connection to Levi |
|---|---|---|
| Egyptian Records | Various inscriptions and papyri from ancient Egypt sometimes reference groups that some scholars believe could be related to the Israelites. | While these records don’t directly mention Levi, they might provide a broader context to the time when he and his family lived in Egypt. |
| Shechem Ruins | Archaeological digs at the site believed to be ancient Shechem have revealed remnants of city walls, gates, and artifacts. | While these ruins offer a glimpse into the city where Levi and Simeon avenged their sister Dinah, direct connections to Levi are speculative. |
| Pictographs and Inscriptions | Some ancient Near Eastern inscriptions depict tribes or groups of people. | While these inscriptions help understand the cultural and societal milieu of the era, drawing direct links to Levi or the Levites is often based on interpretation rather than clear evidence. |
| Remnants of Ancient Rituals | Various artifacts related to religious rituals from the Canaanite and early Israelite periods have been discovered. | While these provide insights into religious practices of the time, making a direct correlation with the Levitical rituals or Levi himself is challenging. |
It’s essential to approach the topic of Levi and archaeology with caution. While numerous archaeological discoveries provide insights into the world during Levi’s time, direct evidence linking artifacts to Levi or the Levitical lineage is scant. Most connections are based on broader contextual interpretations rather than explicit references or findings.
Lessons We Can Learn from the Life of Levi 📚
Levi’s story reminds us of the power of redemption. His life teaches us that growth comes from acknowledging our mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and taking steps towards change.
Table: 7 Lessons from the Life of Levi
| Lesson | Description | Application in Modern Context |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Family Loyalty | Levi’s actions, especially in avenging Dinah, underscore the importance he placed on family honor and loyalty. | Standing up for our loved ones and prioritizing family bonds remains a timeless value, although the ways we express this loyalty should be considered and non-violent. |
| 2. Consequences of Impulsivity | While Levi’s intentions in defending his sister’s honor were understandable, his rash actions had repercussions. | Before taking actions based on strong emotions, it’s wise to reflect on potential outcomes and whether there might be more constructive solutions. |
| 3. Redemption is Possible | Despite the criticism from his father, the Levitical tribe, Levi’s descendants, would later redeem their reputation through dedicated service to God. | Mistakes and poor judgments from our past don’t define our future. With effort and commitment, we can change our narrative. |
| 4. Legacy Matters | Levi’s life laid the foundation for the Levites’ unique religious role, showcasing the importance of the legacy we leave. | We should be mindful of the long-term impact of our actions and values, thinking beyond our immediate circumstances to the legacy we’re creating for future generations. |
| 5. Leadership Requires Responsibility | As one of the elder sons, Levi had an implicit leadership role, highlighting the responsibilities that come with such positions. | Being in a position of influence or leadership requires thoughtfulness and a sense of responsibility towards those we lead or influence. |
| 6. Spiritual Foundations | The subsequent dedication of the Levites to religious duties hints at a strong spiritual foundation that might have its roots in Levi. | Establishing strong core values and spiritual foundations can have a ripple effect, influencing not just our lives but also the lives of our descendants. |
| 7. Transformation through Reflection | Jacob’s rebuke might have been a moment of introspection for Levi, leading to growth and transformation. | When faced with criticism or rebuke, instead of reacting defensively, using it as an opportunity for reflection and growth can be transformative. |
Levi’s life, replete with complexities, offers a rich tapestry of lessons on family, responsibility, redemption, and legacy. His story reminds us of the intricate interplay of choices, consequences, and the potential for transformation, themes deeply resonant in our own life journeys.
How Was Levi Important to Christianity? ✝️
The Levites, descendants of Levi, set a foundation for spiritual leadership. Their role foreshadowed the priestly duties in Christianity, emphasizing the importance of spiritual guidance.
Table: How Was Levi Important to Christianity
| Aspect of Levi’s Importance | Description | Significance in Christian Doctrine and Thought |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Patriarch of the Levites | Levi was the forefather of the Levites, who held significant religious roles among the Israelites. | The Levites served as early examples of dedicated religious service, a theme that continues in Christian pastoral and priestly roles. |
| 2. Ancestral Lineage | From Levi’s line came Moses and Aaron, central figures in Old Testament narratives. | Moses and Aaron’s roles in delivering the Israelites and establishing the covenant prefigure salvation themes in Christianity. |
| 3. Foreshadowing Priesthood | The Levitical priesthood, serving in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, prefigures the High Priest role that Jesus would hold in Christian theology. | Jesus is often referred to as the “High Priest” in the New Testament, symbolizing the bridge between humanity and God, much like the Levites served for the Israelites. |
| 4. Biblical Fulfillment | Prophecies and rituals involving the Levites find their fulfillment in Christian teachings. | For example, the sacrificial system overseen by the Levites foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. |
| 5. Lessons in Redemption | The Levites, including Levi’s own transformation from a rebuked son to the patriarch of a chosen tribe, highlight themes of redemption. | Redemption is central to Christian doctrine, with believers taught that they can be redeemed through Jesus, similar to how the Levites redeemed their status through service. |
| 6. Continuity of Scriptures | Levi’s life and the Levites’ contributions form integral parts of the Old Testament. | The Old Testament lays the foundation for Christian teachings and beliefs in the New Testament, ensuring continuity in the biblical narrative. |
| 7. Model of Service | The Levites’ dedicated service, whether in the Tabernacle, Temple, or among the community, serves as a model. | It exemplifies the Christian principle of serving others selflessly, a teaching Jesus emphasized throughout his ministry. |
Levi’s significance in Christianity is multifaceted, stemming from his foundational role in the Old Testament. Through his lineage, the rituals and teachings associated with the Levites, and the overarching themes of service and redemption, Levi’s legacy continues to resonate within Christian teachings and beliefs.
Final Thoughts 💭 7 Big Ideas
Levi’s tale, filled with trials and triumphs, teaches us:
- The power of redemption and second chances.
- The importance of spiritual leadership.
- The profound impact of lineage and legacy.
- The journey from mistake to forgiveness.
- The transformative power of faith amidst challenges.
- The constant dance between our human flaws and divine callings.
- The promise that our past does not limit our potential.
Conclusion 🌟
Levi’s life is a beacon of hope, showing that with faith and forgiveness, we can overcome our past and step into a purpose-filled future. It’s not about being perfect but about striving, growing, and believing in the potential of new beginnings.
FAQs
- Why is Levi’s lineage significant?
- The Levites, as descendants of Levi, played a crucial role as priests, underscoring the importance of spiritual leadership in biblical times.
- Did Levi write any books in the Bible?
- No, Levi did not author any specific books. However, the Levitical laws and practices are extensively covered in the Old Testament.
- How did Levi influence Christianity?
- Levi’s lineage, the Levites, set the groundwork for spiritual leadership, which has parallels in Christian priestly roles.
- What can we learn from Levi’s story today?
- Levi’s life teaches us about redemption, the power of faith, and the importance of acknowledging mistakes and seeking forgiveness.
- Why is Levi’s story relevant to personal growth?
- Levi’s journey from impulsiveness to spiritual leadership exemplifies personal transformation and the possibility of change.
- How did Levi’s early actions impact his later life?
- Despite his early rash decisions, Levi’s life pivoted towards spiritual leadership, showing that our past actions don’t confine us.
Best Old Testament Commentaries
Below is a table featuring some renowned Old Testament commentaries, their publishers, and websites where they can be found. As always, it’s best to confirm availability on multiple platforms or the publishers’ websites.
| Commentary Name | Publisher | Website |
|---|---|---|
| The New International Commentary on the Old Testament | Eerdmans | Eerdmans |
| Word Biblical Commentary | Zondervan | Zondervan |
| Baker Commentary on the Old Testament | Baker Academic | Baker Academic |
| The Anchor Yale Bible Commentary | Yale University Press | Yale University Press |
| Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries | InterVarsity Press | InterVarsity Press |
| Expositor’s Bible Commentary | Zondervan | Zondervan |
| The Old Testament for Everyone | Westminster John Knox Press | Westminster John Knox Press |
Note: As with the New Testament table, this table provides generalized examples and does not list each volume within the commentary series. The commentaries can usually be found on the publishers’ websites or other online book retailers such as Amazon or Christianbook. It is always advisable to check for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding availability.
