יוסף
Meaning of the name יוסף
Yosef (Joseph) is one of the most central and significant names in Jewish tradition, belonging to one of the twelve tribes and a pivotal figure in the Book of Genesis. The name derives from the Hebrew root Y.S.F, meaning "to add" or "will add." When Rachel, after years of barrenness, gave birth to Joseph, she named him with the hope that God would add another son to her, as written: "And she called his name Joseph, saying, 'May the Lord add to me another son.'" The name Joseph reflects hope, blessing, and renewal, carrying a message of faith in the future and the continuity of generations. The story of Joseph the Righteous is one of the most moving and complex narratives in the Bible. Joseph was the beloved son of Jacob, who gave him the famous coat of many colors as an expression of his special love. His brothers' jealousy led to his sale into slavery in Egypt, but it was precisely there that his true greatness was revealed. Joseph was gifted with the ability to interpret dreams, a talent that elevated him from the depths of the pit and prison to the position of viceroy of Egypt. When he interpreted Pharaoh's dreams about the seven years of plenty and seven years of famine, he not only saved Egypt but also his own family and the future of the Jewish people. The emotional story of the reunion with his brothers, who did not recognize him, and ultimately the revelation and reconciliation, teaches about the power of forgiveness, wisdom, and family responsibility. The name Yosef carries deep meanings of righteousness, wisdom, and inner strength. Joseph earned the title "Joseph the Righteous" for his resistance to the seduction of Potiphar's wife, an act that became a symbol of self-control and moral righteousness. Throughout Jewish history, the name Yosef has been extremely popular among all communities and ethnic groups, from Ashkenaz to Sepharad, from Yemen to Ethiopia. The name carries with it a tradition of leadership, practical wisdom, and the ability to face challenges. In modern times, the name Yosef continues to be beloved and widespread, both in its full form and in various affectionate forms such as Yossi, Yossel, or Joey. The name symbolizes a connection to ancient tradition while maintaining contemporary relevance, and it suits parents seeking a name with deep historical significance, high moral values, and hope for a bright future.
The name יוסף with vowels
יוֹסֵף
The name יוסף in English
Joseph | Yosef | Josef | Yoseph | Jose | Joey
יוסף is mainly suitable for
Boy
Is the name יוסף considered international
Yes
Origin of the name יוסף from the Bible
Genesis 30:24 - And she called his name Joseph, saying: 'The LORD will add to me another son'
Origin of the name יוסף from Kabbalah
In Kabbalah, Yosef symbolizes the sefirah of Yesod (Foundation), which connects the spiritual world to the physical world. Joseph the Righteous is considered the righteous foundation of the world, guardian of the covenant and purity. The name Yosef has a gematria value of 156, relating to concepts of growth and spiritual development. Kabbalah sees in Joseph the power to maintain holiness even under the most difficult conditions.
Gematria value for the name יוסף
156
=
10
י
+
6
ו
+
60
ס
+
80
ף
Numerology value for the name יוסף
3
=
10
י
+
6
ו
+
60
ס
+
80
ף
=
156
=
1
+
5
+
6
=
12
=
1
+
2
=
3
Famous people named יוסף
Joseph Biden - President of the United States | Joseph Stalin - Soviet leader | Giuseppe Verdi - Italian composer | Joseph Conrad - British novelist | Joseph Gordon-Levitt - American actor | Joe DiMaggio - legendary baseball player
Names similar to יוסף
Total times the name יוסף was registered
81724 times
Graph of the name יוסף
* Source: Central Bureau of Statistics. As of April 2022