Ἰωσήφ
Iōsēph
Joseph
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word Ἰωσήφ (Iōsēph) is translated as "Joseph," appearing 6 times in the Bible. This short definition indicates that the word refers to a person's name, which was likely a common given name in ancient times. The fact that it appears a relatively small number of times in the Bible suggests that it may be used to refer to a specific individual rather than a broader concept or idea. The limited usage of this word indicates that its significance may be more context-dependent than other words in the Bible. However, its appearance in the biblical text may suggest that the person named Joseph holds some level of importance or significance within the narrative. Without more context or comparative data, it's difficult to say exactly what this significance entails. Overall, the word Ἰωσήφ provides a simple and direct reference to a person's name, allowing readers to connect with the biblical narrative on a personal level.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
6 total occurrences across the text
When evening had come, a rich man from Arimathaea, named Joseph, who himself was also Jesus’ disciple came.
Matthew 27:59Joseph took the body, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,
Mark 15:43Joseph of Arimathaea, a prominent council member who also himself was looking for God’s Kingdom, came. He boldly went in to Pilate, and asked for Jesus’ body.
Luke 23:50Behold, a man named Joseph, who was a member of the council, a good and righteous man
John 19:38After these things, Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked of Pilate that he might take away Jesus’ body. Pilate gave him permission. He came therefore and took away his body.
Mark 15:45When he found out from the centurion, he granted the body to Joseph.