### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek proper noun Ἰωσῆς (Iōsēs) `{{G2500}}` is a transliteration of a Hebrew name, most likely a shorter or Hellenized form of Ἰωσήφ (Iōsēph) `{{G2501}}`. The base definition provided suggests this direct link to Joseph. The Hebrew root for Joseph, from which both names derive, is יָסַף (yasaph) `{{H3254}}`, meaning "to add," "to increase," or "to do again." Therefore, the core meaning of Ἰωσῆς carries the theological nuance of "He (God) adds" or "May He add." As a proper name, its semantic range is primarily limited to identifying specific individuals within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ἰωσῆς `{{G2500}}` appears in the New Testament, referring to at least two distinct individuals, or possibly a single individual mentioned in different contexts:
1. **Joses, Brother of Jesus:** This individual is named among the siblings of Jesus in the Gospels.
* In [[Matthew 13:55]], when Jesus teaches in his hometown, the people question his authority, asking, "Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Joses?" Here, Joses is explicitly listed as one of Jesus' four brothers.
* Similarly, in [[Mark 6:3]], the people of Nazareth inquire, "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?" Again, Joses is identified as a brother of Jesus. These passages highlight Jesus' humble origins and his human family connections, which initially struggled with his messianic claims ([[John 7:5]]).
2. **Joses, Son of Mary (at the Cross):** This Joses is mentioned in connection with the crucifixion and burial of Jesus.
* In [[Mark 15:40]], among the women who witnessed the crucifixion from a distance, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and Joses, and Salome are named. This Mary is distinct from Mary Magdalene and is identified as the mother of James the Less and Joses.
* Later, in [[Mark 15:47]], Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses observe where Jesus' body was laid.
While the text presents this Joses as the son of a different Mary, many scholars consider it highly probable that this Joses is the same individual as the brother of Jesus, indicating that at least one of Jesus' brothers became a follower. His presence at the cross and burial signifies a profound shift from initial skepticism to faithful witness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is Ἰωσήφ (Iōsēph) `{{G2501}}`, from which Ἰωσῆς `{{G2500}}` is believed to be derived. Ἰωσήφ is a much more common name in the New Testament, referring to Joseph, the husband of Mary; Joseph of Arimathea; and the patriarch Joseph. The underlying Hebrew root יָסַף (yasaph) `{{H3254}}` (to add, increase, continue) is foundational to understanding the etymological significance of both names. Another related variant is Ἰωσή (Iōsē) `{{G2499}}`, also a Hellenized form of Joseph. The concept of "adding" or "increasing" inherent in the name's etymology subtly points to God's providence and His work of building His kingdom. The individuals bearing this name are also related to the concepts of Jesus' earthly family, discipleship, and faithful witness.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, the theological significance of Ἰωσῆς `{{G2500}}` is primarily found in its etymological meaning and the roles of the individuals who bore it. The name "Joses," meaning "He (God) adds" or "May He add," serves as a quiet reminder of God's sovereignty and His ongoing work of adding to His people and His plan.
The Joses identified as a brother of Jesus highlights the Incarnation's reality—Jesus' full humanity and his rootedness in a specific family and community. The initial unbelief of Jesus' brothers ([[John 7:5]]) contrasts sharply with their later presence among the disciples after the resurrection ([[Acts 1:14]]). If the Joses at the cross is indeed the brother of Jesus, his presence signifies a powerful transformation, demonstrating the power of Christ's cross and resurrection to draw even those closest to him into saving faith. His witness to the crucifixion and burial underscores the authenticity of these historical events and the devotion of early followers. The name itself, "God adds," could be seen as a subtle theological statement, perhaps even a prophetic one, concerning the growth of the early church as God added to their number daily ([[Acts 2:47]]).
### Summary
Ἰωσῆς `{{G2500}}` is a Greek proper noun, likely a diminutive or variant of Ἰωσήφ `{{G2501}}`, carrying the core meaning "He (God) adds." It identifies two (or possibly one, depending on scholarly interpretation) individuals in the New Testament. One Joses is listed as a brother of Jesus ([[Matthew 13:55]], [[Mark 6:3]]), anchoring Jesus in his human family. Another Joses, son of Mary, is present at the crucifixion and burial ([[Mark 15:40]], [[Mark 15:47]]), serving as a faithful witness to these pivotal events. The name's etymological root subtly points to God's ongoing work of adding and increasing, while the individuals bearing the name represent aspects of Jesus' humanity, the initial skepticism of his family, and the transformative power of the Gospel leading to faithful discipleship.
TRV