342. That the second born of the Church is charity becomes clear from the things which the Church conceives and gives birth to, which are nothing other than faith and charity. The first of those born to Leah by Jacob had a similar meaning. Reuben meant faith; Simeon, faith expressed in action; Levi, charity, Genesis 29:32-34. This also was why the tribe of Levi assumed the function of the priesthood and became representative of the shepherd of the flock. Being the second born of the Church, charity is referred to as 'a brother. and is called 'Abel'.

5630. 'And may he release to you your other brother' means so that it may grant the good of faith. This is clear from the representation of Simeon, to whom 'other brother' refers here, as the good of faith, as above in 5626. The reason 'releasing' or 'sending' means granting is that the expression 'sending' applies to the person but 'granting' to the spiritual reality meant by that person.