Yosef

Yosef is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin. It derives from the Hebrew Yosef (יוֹסֵף), commonly translated as “God will increase” or “God shall add.” In the Hebrew Bible, Yosef is the son of Jacob who is sold into slavery in Egypt and later rises to power, ultimately helping his family during a famine. The name’s biblical associations with providence and leadership have contributed to its enduring popularity.

Across languages and cultures, Yosef has many transliterations and related forms. In Hebrew and modern usage it is often spelled Yosef or Yossef; in Ashkenazi and some other communities variations include Yosif or Yoseph. In Arabic-speaking contexts the equivalents are Yusuf or Youssef, while Turkish uses Yusuf. The name appears in numerous cultures with local pronunciations and spellings, reflecting its widespread religious and literary resonance.

In religious and cultural contexts, Yosef’s biblical narrative has helped shape its associations with wisdom, administration, and family reunification. The name is common among Jewish communities worldwide and remains popular in Israel. In Christian and Muslim traditions, related forms such as Joseph, Yusuf, or Youssef appear frequently, contributing to a broad, cross-cultural presence of the name in historical and contemporary usage.