Meaning:
Its source is Yosef, a Hebrew name meaning "The Lord's addition (to the family)."
Popularity:
The name Joesph ranked 622nd in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of the 1990 US Census.
Though this name appears on the 1990 U.S. Census lists, it is used by only a small percentage of the general population.
It is very likely that this name appears in the data as a consistent misspelling of Joseph.
Narrative:
Joseph of the Jewish scriptures was the youngest son of Jacob, and wearer of what a modern stage version of his story calls the ''technicolor dream coat.'' Sold into slavery in Egypt by his jealous brothers, he used his prophetic and administrative powers to achieve a position in which he ruled the country in Pharaoh's name. When his brothers sought help from Egypt during a famine, Joseph answered their treachery with forgiveness.
Christians also use this name in honor of another Joseph, foster-father of Jesus. The Bible relates little about him besides his carpenter's trade, his faith in God's messages, and his care for his child and his wife, Mary. He is a revered symbol of trusting patience and vigilant protection.
