### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The name **Iōsḗph**, represented by `{{G2501}}`, is of Hebrew origin and identifies several key individuals in the Bible. It appears 35 times across 34 unique verses. The name is applied to different Israelites, most notably the patriarch son of Jacob and the earthly father of Jesus, linking the Old Testament covenants to the New Testament fulfillment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2501}}` refers to distinct individuals with significant roles. The most prominent is **Joseph**, the husband of Mary and the legal father of Jesus ([[Matthew 1:16]], [[Luke 3:23]]). He is described as a just man of the house of David ([[Matthew 1:19]], [[Luke 1:27]]) who was guided by an angel to protect the young Jesus [[Matthew 2:13]]. The name also refers to the Old Testament patriarch **Joseph**, the son of Jacob, who was sold into Egypt by his brothers [[Acts 7:9]] and whose faith is highlighted in the book of Hebrews [[Hebrews 11:22]]. Other figures include **Joseph** of Arimathaea, a disciple who cared for the body of Jesus ([[Matthew 27:57]], [[John 19:38]]), and several ancestors in the lineage of Christ ([[Luke 3:24]], 3:30).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the roles and relationships of the individuals named **Joseph**:
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (a "father"): This term is central to the identity of the patriarch Joseph, son of Jacob [[Acts 7:14]], and Joseph of Nazareth, who is identified as the **father** of Jesus [[John 6:42]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (a "son"): This word connects directly to both major figures, as Jesus is known as the **son** of Joseph [[Luke 4:22]], and the patriarch Joseph blessed his own sons [[Hebrews 11:21]].
* `{{G1138}}` **Dabíd** (David): This name is vital for establishing the Messianic lineage through Joseph of Nazareth, who is addressed as a "son of **David**" and is of his house and lineage ([[Matthew 1:20]], [[Luke 2:4]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2501}}` is demonstrated through the pivotal roles these individuals play in redemptive history.
* **Patriarchal Providence:** The patriarch **Joseph** embodies God's sovereign plan. His journey from being sold into slavery to a position of power in Egypt was the means by which God preserved the future nation of Israel [[Acts 7:9]]. His faith extended to the future, giving commandments concerning his bones [[Hebrews 11:22]].
* **Messianic Lineage:** **Joseph**, the husband of Mary, provides the crucial legal and royal lineage for Jesus. By being of the "house and lineage of David," he officially connects Jesus to the Davidic covenant ([[Luke 2:4]], [[Matthew 1:20]]).
* **Faithful Obedience:** As the earthly guardian of Jesus, **Joseph** models profound faith. He acts without question on the commands of the **angel** of the Lord, first by taking Mary as his **wife** and then by protecting the young child in Egypt ([[Matthew 1:24]], [[Matthew 2:13]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2501}}` is not a generic name but a designation for several figures essential to the biblical narrative. From the patriarch who preserved the tribes of Israel to the just man who was the legal father of the Messiah, the name **Joseph** is consistently associated with faith, protection, and the fulfillment of God's promises. The different individuals named **Joseph** each play an indispensable part in the unfolding story of salvation, bridging the history of Israel with the coming of Jesus Christ.
TRV