Meaning of Joseph (Genesis) in the Bible
Language: HebrewTransliteration: YosefGender: MaleTestament: Old Testament
Meaning
“May he add”
Joseph, son of Jacob and Rachel, is sold by his brothers and carried to Egypt, where he moves from slavery and prison to authority under Pharaoh. Through dreams, administrative wisdom, and providential reversals, he prepares Egypt for famine and later preserves his family.
Scripture References for Joseph (Genesis)
6 key passages featuring this name
Genesis 30:24
“And she called his name Joseph; and said, The Lord shall add to me another son.”
Genesis 37:3
“Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours.”
Genesis 39:2
“And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.”
Genesis 41:41
“And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt.”
Genesis 45:5
“Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.”
Genesis 50:20
“But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”
The Name Joseph (Genesis) in God's Word
Names in Scripture carry deep significance. Joseph (Genesis) — meaning “May he add” — reflects a truth about identity, purpose, and God's design. Meditate on these passages to understand what this name reveals about God's character and His people.
- Author:
- The Lord Will Editorial Team
- Reviewed by:
- Ugo Candido
- Last updated: