J

Joseph(12)

Joseph in the Bible — a Levite of Cyprian birth (ACT 4:36). Joseph belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “increase; addition”

Profile

Gender
male
Tribe
Levi
Scripture References
3 references
Known Names
2 names
Relationships
1 connection

Biography

Joseph is a male Levite distinguished by his Cyprian birth, as noted in Acts 4:36. His identity as a Levite situates him within the tribe traditionally associated with priestly duties, though no additional personal notes are recorded here. This background frames him as a significant figure within the early Christian community.

Names & Titles

Joseph means 'he will add,' reflecting a name of hopeful increase, while Barnabas, his other known name, means 'son of encouragement' or literally 'prophecy.' Both names, cited in Acts 4:36, highlight aspects of his character and role among the believers, emphasizing encouragement and growth.

Family

Scripture explicitly records Joseph as a descendant of Levi, linking him to the priestly tribe. Beyond this tribal affiliation, no further family relationships are detailed for him in the provided information.

Significance

Joseph's importance lies in his role as a Levite of Cyprian birth who exemplified faith and encouragement within the early church. His life and ministry prefigure Christ by demonstrating suffering, exaltation, and a saving role for God's people, aligning with the broader biblical theme of redemption and grace.

Key Events

Sold into slavery by his brothers(Genesis 37:28)
Imprisoned in Egypt(Genesis 39:20)
Became second-in-command of Egypt(Genesis 41:46)
Reunited with his brothers(Genesis 45:1-15)
Death(Genesis 50:26)

Names & Labels (2)

Josephproper name
Hebrew
יוֹסֵ֖ף
Transliteration
yosef
Meaning
he will add
Greek
Ιωσηφ
Reference
ACT 4:36
Strong's
H3130
Barnabasproper name
Hebrew
בַּר־נַבָּא
Transliteration
bar-naba
Meaning
son of encouragement [lit. prophecy]
Greek
Βαρναβᾶς
Reference
ACT 4:36
Strong's
H1248, H5012

Family & Relationships (1)

descendant

Levi(ACT 4:36)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Joseph in the Bible?

Joseph is a male Levite distinguished by his Cyprian birth, as noted in Acts 4:36. His identity as a Levite situates him within the tribe traditionally associated with priestly duties, though no additional personal notes are recorded here. This background frames him as a significant figure within the early Christian community.

What does the name Joseph mean?

The name Joseph means “increase; addition” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

Continue Your Study