What was Joseph and Mary’s last name? This question has intrigued scholars, theologians, and historians for centuries. The New Testament, the sacred text of Christianity, does not explicitly mention the last name of Joseph, Mary, or their son, Jesus Christ. However, there are various theories and speculations regarding their surname, with the most widely accepted suggestion being “Joseph.”
The name “Joseph” is of Hebrew origin and means “increased” or “he will add.” It is a common name in the Bible, with Joseph being a prominent figure in the Old Testament as well. In the New Testament, Joseph is portrayed as a righteous and God-fearing man who worked as a carpenter, providing for his family. He is also depicted as a guardian and protector of Mary and Jesus.
Some scholars argue that the absence of a last name for Joseph and Mary is due to the fact that in biblical times, people were often known by their father’s name or their profession. In the case of Joseph and Mary, their surnames might not have been necessary since they were closely associated with their family names. For instance, Jesus Christ is often referred to as “Jesus of Nazareth,” with “Nazareth” being his hometown and not his surname.
The New Testament does not provide any evidence to suggest that Joseph and Mary had a surname other than “Joseph.” However, some early Christian texts and apocryphal writings propose alternative names, such as “Yosef” or “Ioseph.” These variations are believed to be influenced by the languages and cultures in which the texts were written.
Another theory suggests that the surname “Joseph” might have been used to emphasize the importance of Joseph’s role as Jesus’ earthly father. By focusing on his name, the authors of the New Testament might have wanted to highlight the divine nature of Jesus and his mission on Earth.
In conclusion, while the exact last name of Joseph and Mary remains a mystery, the most widely accepted theory is that their surname was “Joseph.” This name signifies their connection to each other and their shared role in the birth and upbringing of Jesus Christ. The absence of a definitive answer to this question only adds to the intrigue and mystique surrounding the lives of these biblical figures.
